Shock for shock's sake

Rating: 4/10 (23 December 2015)

I like symbolism. I get symbolism. However, the art of symbolism or the portrayal thereof should, in my humble opinion, be handled discreetly. I prefer searching for references on my own rather than have them thrown at me. This is a film which is directing my thoughts to a certain direction, with strict directions by the director. It leaves little space for reflection upon what is being portrayed. Greek directors such as Lanthimos, a Von-Trier wannabe of sorts, use extremities and shocking images to project their "philosophie du comptoir" perceptions of reality upon their audience. In all honesty, I have almost never left a film halfway in, but in the case of The Lobster I have. Some might actually indulge in what the film is about, but taste is subjective in any case. In a nutshell, I do not appreciate shock for shock's sake, nor art for art's sake for that matter. If you do, then by all means watch this film. If you do not, opt for something way more through provoking, like The Life of Brian.