I will not watch 'Irreversible' or 'Salo: The 120 Days of Sodom' again. I thought both films were well-made, and I actually recommend Irreversible to my friends with edgier cinematic tastes. 'Salo,' however, maintains such an air of discomfort, tension, and general unpleasantness that I really can't recommend it to anyone. But if you've heard of it and are curious, by all means dive in. Just make sure you get the double-disc Criterion edition---the second disc is very illuminating.
When I first saw 'Precious' it bothered me so greatly I couldn't sleep the night I saw it and was sure I wouldn't see it again. Took 3 months but I did see it again and it's now one of my favorites.
reply
share
the_marble_faun
15 years ago
No one could talk into me into rewatching 'Irreversible'. A friend of mine I was watching it with starting shaking during the rape scene. I understand the point of the movie and I think it's clever but at the same time I think it's hostile towards the audience and ultimately unenlightening. The message is far from subtle and even rather stupid. "Time ruins everything" (or something like that) it declares, stating the message blatantly for those who might have missed it. This is the equivalent of saying *beep* the world'. Sorry to rant but I really disliked that movie.
'Salo' also scarred me but I don't feel that it is hostile towards the audience. Rather I think it's a very sincere expression of frustration with mankind's capacity for evil and the commodification of the human body. It's a tough one to recommend but it certainly leaves an impact.
reply
share