I
will be the first to admit that I don't always have the stomach to watch the
things that got me so excited about the horror genre only a few years ago. I feel that the Saw series, while smart and fascinating, has gone overboard as of
late, and I have never been a fan of the rape/torture porn films like Hostel. But for some reason the same rules don't apply for I Spit On Your Grave, a unique remake of
the 1978 cult hit Day of the Woman
which tells the story of a rape victim seeking out revenge on her assessors.
I
know, I know, it breaks one of my rules; however, there is no denying a good
film when you see it and I can assure you that I Spit On Your Grave is nothing short of a spectacular film - for
horror genre fans that is.
Sarah
Butler inherits the responsibility of portraying Jennifer, a novelist who has
rented out a cabin in hopes of finding some peace and quit to tackle her next project. But a seemingly innocent run-in at the
gas station turns to one of brutal sexual violence as we witness a full fifteen
minute rape scene involving our beloved Jennifer and five other men. It is a terrifying moment really, the
scariest of the film. Watching it
I cringed, longing for some sort of redemption. I just had to be patient.
The
final thirty minutes of the film is filled with a series of traps and gadgets
that Jigsaw would find intimidating.
(I would reveal a few here but wouldn't dare ruin the experience for any
of you.) With nowhere to turn and
a secret that lies in the pit of their gut, it is a pleasure to see the five
men as they attempt to keep their cool and act as if nothing has happened.
Intermixed
within the heavy dosage of violence lies a story of merit. I can't say I expected much when I
first walked into the theater, but after it was all said and done I must tip my
hats to both the cast and crew.
The film is deep, intense and eye opening. The acting is stellar, especially that of Butler, and I
couldn't strip my eyes from the screen as I found myself infatuated with the
current course of events.
I
will say that I Spit On Your Grave is
not for everyone. It takes a very
unique type of horror fan to appreciate and understand the story and meaning
behind such a film. It is set to
hit theaters in an unrated form later this year and I can only hope that it
will shine some light on the rated/unrated theatrical debate. Until then, check this film out, it is
smart, fresh and internally frightening.
This may be the best anti-sexual violence ad I have ever seen.
