"Antichrist" (Von Trier, 2009)

Antichrist most definitely has it's own deliberate controversial and shocking moments to it, and yet once you've seen the film you could probably see it working with over half of these shocking moments removed. Some of the horrific moments do belong in the film and work well while others definitely don't. These disturbing shots though, do create the sick and twisted atmosphere that dwells in the viewer's mind for the remainder of the film, and keeps you with your eyes closed, or on the edge of your seat.

The film has a great feel throughout, mostly down to Camera technique and post-production. The colour in the film really helps set the mood, and helps the audience ease into the unexpected. Well thought out monologue's of both Defoe & Gainsbourg show the viewer different sides of the imagination and perception of events. This contrast helps create the sinister, yet mysterious atmosphere the film holds, and it works well! Although not necessarily considering this during the movie, Von Trier has achieved similar symbol-use to that of Andrei Tarkovsky (whom the film is dedicated to). Various shots composed of nothing more than a blur set in some obscure location help create the mysterious aura that is seen in "Stalker" (Tarkovsky, 1979) & "The Werckmeister Harmonies" (Tarr, 2000).

The acting from both William Defoe & Charlotte Gainsbourg is just superb throughout. As a viewer, you quickly side with Defoe, feeling he is the innocent in the conflict, though there are opposing shots through the entire length of the film to counter-act this, such as showing little to no grief over the death of his son. Gainsbourg Porno-Terror helps the audience's distaste of her grow, especially in the cum-blood scene. She is truely terrific and horrifying in the woodland chase scene, as nothing can be heard save her beast like screaming "Where are you?" and Defoe's heavy breathing.

Overall, This is a grim film that makes you to feel the pain its characters do. It will make you shudder, and will send shivers down your spine. But its much more than your generic horror flick. It is an ode to one of the greatest directors of the last century, and makes vast comment on marriage, isolation and mental illness. Definite recommend.

Final Rating: 4.5/5

Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hw03QayJ2fU