Funny Games U.S. (2007)

Cast: Naomi Watts, Tim Roth, Michael Pitt

Director: Michael Haneke

Genre: thriller, horror

I had never heard of 'Funny Games' before I saw the trailer for the
re-make of the German Original. I was really just expecting a
run-of-the-mill horror/thriller movie that entertains, but is
forgettable. When I finally saw the film my first reaction afterwords
was, "What on earth just happened?". The film's style is almost like
you're looking through a window into the house where the 'Funny Games'
are taking place. The camera makes little movement, and sometimes there
are lengthly scenes where it doesn't cut at all. The film is definitely
an art film and may be confusing to people expecting a big budget
Hollywood blockbuster. The films PROS: There is an EXCELLENT message
sent through the movie, about America's growing love for watching
gruesome torture and gore on the big screen nowadays. You don't pick up
on it the first time you watch it, but you notice that its not so much
a movie about a story than it is a statement. There are also brilliant
performances from Naomi Watts and the other co-stars. And some scenes
are really suspenseful! The Films CONS: For people who are not prone to
understanding the hidden meaning underneath art films immediately (like
me) you will feel confused, and somewhat frustrated. There are times
where it feels like you have to suffer through a 7-minute static shot
of the living room and its wounded occupants lying there sobbing until
you can get to an interesting situation. Overall 'Funny Games' was an
original experience, but one that fails to really deliver a suspense
filled 'Mainstream' performan…

Trailer Funny Games U.S.