Rafael "Parker!!" Jovine’s review published on Letterboxd:
The Danish director's latest film is an absolutely unabashed take on the art of nihilism of Michael Haneke with a little touch of Lanthimos' awkwardness.
It's not surprising that so many people disliked this movie. All of the characters in this film are unlikeable. They are the types of people you want to see suffer. Until the very end, at least. Certain twists in the final act reveal who is the greater villain, and I found myself sympathizing for the others. Overall, I think all of the actors did a fantastic job in this regard, going all in and not shying away from their unlikeability.
The writing is solid, with a nice dose of dark humor that made me giggle a few times and made the film slightly more entertaining. Though one could reasonably argue that it could have been better structured, I didn't find any of the twists to be forced or incongruous, and I particularly liked the big twist on the third act. It would have been nice to have a clearer explanation for the family's repeated departures and returns, especially given the way they are presented to us. If I were in their position, I would have left and never looked back, and I promise you that I am nicer and more thoughtful than that couple.
Finally, technical work like the cinematography are well accomplished. The production design and costumes elevate it to a respectable level, but it lacks any truly remarkable qualities. The score is effective, albeit occasionally overbearing. Like, not at all subtle. It's as if it doesn't allow you decide for yourself if something horrible is going to happen or not; instead, it spoils the suspense by making it abundantly clear.
All in all, far from being an easy watch, if you are a fan of the aforementioned directors work, you are bound to like this film.
TODAY SCHEDULE
Speak No Evil
Girl, Interrupted
Midnight Man
Black Sunday
