And thereās some sort of parameters to my thoughts here, but I canāt quite place emālike psychosocially or maybe even metaphysicallyāreallyā¦ but I mean, like, I didnāt include Funny Games or SalĆ² or Come and See. Thereās a reason for that, but I donāt really know what that reason isā¦ š¤·š»āāļø
This Austrian thriller tells the story of a young wealthy family held hostage in a gated vacation community by two sadistic young men known only as āPeter & Paulā who invite them to engage in twisted games and force them to make a bet on whether or not they will survive the night.
Often breaking the fourth wall throughout the film a smirking Paul speaks directly the viewer forcing them to reflect on their own complicity as an observer of sadistic violence as entertainment.Ā
The most interesting thing about the film, and what makes it unique is that its portrayal of violence is often implied & built up through tension. The actual act of violent aggression occurs just off screen.
We cannot see what is happening but are so immersed in the experience expecting what will come that we feel every minute of it.Ā
Itās bleak and depressing and not an easy watch. It offers no hope but it is a masterful utilization of the horror genre to make a point in questioning the morality of the consumption of violence as entertainment through its presentation of pointless and senseless torture.Ā
I've really loved everything I've seen of Ryusuke Hamaguchi's work. His films are filled with such passion. As soon as I saw Evil Does Not Exist, I knew it'd be my favourite film of the year.
I loved the themes of man's relationship with its environment and the convergence of capital and nature into something which can not sustain itself.
Also, Eiko Ishibashi's score is incredible. My favourite of the last few years, so beautiful and hypnotic.
As someone who detests glamping, the whole film really appealed to me.
I donāt do this religiously (anymore), but it feels good to craft a solid mix to get you through the day.
I also throw each smaller playlist into a mega-thicky
