Wow, this was an intense movie. A tough movie to review and an even tougher one to watch. Martyrs truly puts the horror back into horror movies. This was completely brutal an unrelenting, there is almost no time to relax and get comfortable. There are no scenes with subtle humor or camp to tap you on the shoulder and say “no worries its just a movie”. From start to finish they ratchet the tension up to 11.
This movie made me feel genuinely uncomfortable which I have to say rarely if ever happens to me while watching a movie. I became attached to the characters because they were painted with such realism and vulnerability and the ferocity of their experience was almost unbearable. I’m not sure exactly how I feel about the direction the movie goes in the second half. The twist gives a rhyme and reason behind the ensuing madness, but I’m not sure if I really bought into it or not. You’ll have to decide for yourself.
I liked the movie, but I wouldn’t feel right saying I enjoyed it. It is very depressing but at the same time scary and suspenseful. If you have any reservations when it comes to violence avoid this at all costs. I heard that in its county of origin, France, it received the equivalent to an X rating, so be warned.
