Product: The Descent (Original Unrated Cut) [Blu-ray] (2006)
Rating: 5.0
Terrifying and Terrific
The Descent is a rare movie. It is both a wonderfully gory and scary horror film and a character study. There's about 25 minutes or so of character introduction. Although we don't learn a lot about most of the women, save for Sarah and Juno, we learn enough to feel the added suspense while they are in the caves.Before there is even a glimpse of one of the creatures, there are scenes that had me terrified. I'm not especially claustrophobic, but I was very uncomfortable watching as the explorers squeezed their way through very tight spaces. I found myself gripping the edges of my chair during one scene when two women become stuck.Once the creatures make their entrance, the suspense and terror are elevated. The somewhat strained relations between the women become more so. As they begin to trust each other less and less, the creatures become more prominent and the blood bath ensues. There are more than a few "jump out and scare ya" moments that are very well done. And through it all, the intense level of suspense never relents.A superior horror film that is definitely not for everyone. Anyone squeamish around tight spaces, intense terror, and gore may not like it. But for those of us who enjoy it, this movie is a gift.