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A general lack of subtlety leaves the characters looking faintly ridiculous, but each has moments that earn some sympathy. Chatterjee brings some gravitas as the knowing Barun Rai, even if the film's writing and direction seem to forget about him from time to time. Banerjee becomes central to the story as a beautiful young woman who becomes the focus of this malevolent spirit. She's always likeable, even when the script gets her to do rather a lot of seriously stupid things. But then that kind of describes all of the characters.

Because this is assembled with the singular purpose of freaking out the audience, there's no deeper meaning to this story, even though the plot has potential for strong elements that could have added more engagement and intrigue. This helps us maintain an interest in the story even when the filmmaking is awkward. And while the over-reliance on digital effects offers some eye-catching imagery, it also leaves the entire movie feeling a bit cartoonish.

themes, violence

27.Oct.21

Of course Chuck has a late wife, murdered by a violent criminal, leaving him an angry mess who shoots first (especially at televisions) and generally hates everyone, usually for good reason. But of course there's more to the story, with repressed feelings revealed in Chuck's feverish dream sequences. His entire identity is wrapped up in being the best cop on the force. Through all of this, the animation is strikingly well-designed, with seriously epic action sequences that occupy much of the film's running time.

The story takes numerous riotously fast twists and turns that keep the audience on its toes, and there are actually some meaningful underlying themes in the way the script playfully skewers both misogynistic machismo and corrupt politics from various angles. Not to suggest that this is highbrow in any way: Mort clearly thinks that vomit is the most hilarious thing in the world. But the subtext adds some teeth to the comedy that makes it both funnier and more provocative than it has any right to be.

themes, language, violence

24.Oct.21

Hardy amusingly reverts to her usual persona in between each crazed set-piece, turning to the camera to perform for her fans. Her mix of fear and tenacity is almost inspirational. As Stretch, Chadha-Patel is terrific, trying to balance his love of a good time with his attempt to be more responsible about his life. And Enahoro steals the show as the absolutely terrifying Angela, who's scary enough when she's just sitting there. As her story emerges, just enough enigma remains to keep her thoroughly unnerving.

Savage's skill as a filmmaker is impressive, so it would be nice to see him go a little deeper next time. Aside from Annie's show-must-go-on ethos, there isn't much here in the way of a meaningful theme. But the film's technical expertise and visceral joy make it worth seeing on a big screen with an up-for-it audience. And perhaps watch it again to read more of the running commentary on the screen, because it's genius too.

themes, language, violence

17.Oct.21 lff