Mixed Bag
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Archived from the IMDb Discussion Forums — It
Drooch — 7 years ago(April 25, 2018 01:15 AM)
This felt like the work of one of those Italian horror directors who boost the horror and conflict but fail to find a sane centre - a comfortable ‘normal world’ we can enjoy before everything goes crazy.
It’s a shame because the few moments in which the many protagonists aren’t tormented by either supernatural clown demons, homicidal bullies or horribly abusive adults are engaging and charming thanks to the talented young cast.
Salem’s Lot was a King that set up the ‘normal world’ perfectly and honoured King’s secret - detailed and intimate characterisation which must then contend with the horrors to come. This was just too much horror porn and over cooked childhood trauma, all in a sugary sweet setting. It feels awkward but not in a deliberate way like The Shining, which is clearly abstract from beginning to end.
I actually really enjoyed the film, and it’s got more going for it than most studio output these days, but it just needed to calm down. Also, enough with the boo-scare sound effects, sudden loud music and overcranked famerate - used sparingly these things can be effective but here it actually detracts from some otherwise impressive imagery.
A director’s cut could solve the problems, and if the reviews are decent then I’m interested to check out the sequel. -
kuatorises — 3 years ago(September 19, 2022 10:35 PM)
- Did we watch the same movie? There's a lot of "down time" in this movie. We get lots of banter and character developing moments between these characters.
- Your posts describes Part 2 a lot more than this one: A mixed bag. There's some stupid stupid jump scares, random gore - the music kicking in when Richie gets barfed on by the leper is just moronic. -and unfunny moments. I laughed just as much as I didn't in this one.