The Tall Man (2012)
Brief review: Don't get mislead by the seemingly hackneyed premise, because" Martyrs" director Pascal Laugier's first-ever English-language feature film, "The Tall Man", is like nothing what you’d expect at all. The first half may be fairly clichéd and pretty straightforward, but that’s just part of Laugier’s clever plan. He wants to mess with your head and leave you with the impression that this is yet another generic horror film about an unknown stranger kidnapping little kids, then halfway through, he throws a curveball that makes you realize nothing in this film is what it seems. From that turning point on, "The Tall Man" starts to play more and more tricks with your mind, right until the very end, when everything falls into place and begins to make perfect sense. "The Tall Man" is definitely not your average kidnapping movie, but something much more than that—it’s unsettling in its realism, intelligent in its approach and profoundly genius in its slick execution. The isolated setting and gloomy cinematography match with the mysterious tone of the film, and Pascal Laugier’s capable direction successfully maintains the intensity of the story. Jessica Biel gives a solid “comeback” performance as the caring, yet shifty town nurse, the oddly adorable Jodelle Ferland makes the film even more engaging than it already is, Stephen McHattie is great as the police detective, Lt. Dodd, and the supporting cast do their best.
Overall summary: It’s no "Martyrs", but Laugier’s latest shocker, "The Tall Man", is still a thought-provoking, deeply disturbing and strangely captivating horror thriller with a great message, filled with mind-boggling twists and turns, that will haunt you long after the credits roll.
Read (and comment on) the extended version of my "Tall Man" review, written exclusively for White Cat Magazine HERE.
12 comments:
I definitely have to check this out and Martyrs. Awesome review, my friend. :) And now I'm off to White Cat.
Mel, you haven't seen Martyrs yet? You have to redeem yourself as soon as possible - it's a UNIQUE horror movie with a twist ending you'll never forget. The Tall Man is almost as good. Thanks, sweetheart!:)
I'm all for a movie that stays with you after the credits roll. Will catch on NetFlix.
Alex, it's about to hit US theaters later on this month, so you can catch it on the big screen.
You will be blown away by the twist, I promise!:)
Yes, Melissa has to see Martyrs!!! Everybody has to see that movie. I believe it should be mandatory for all humans.
I actually didn't even know that Laugier was director for The Tall Man, so I'm instantly more intrigued by it! And you giving your stamp of approval is always a good sign. Can't wait to check it out!
Michele, I haven't seen you around lately, so I'm glad to see you back!:)
She has. Martyrs is shocking, disturbing, genius masterpiece. The Tall Man is almost as good and has Laugier written all over it. You'll get what I'm taking about when you see it. Make sure you do.
hmm...how many dead?
I've been waiting for Pascal Laugier to make a new movie ever since I saw Martyrs as it was one of the greatest horror films I've ever seen. I am eager to see this movie.
Kaijinu, I refuse to answer your question. :P
Alex, I couldn't agree more. Martyrs is one of the greatest horror movies in film history. The Tall Man is nearly as good, but not necessarily a horror movie. Give it a shot as soon as you can. I reckon you'll be impressed with it.
Absolutely agree. Been trying to post a review of this movie, but haven't had time to finish. It definitely wasn't what I expected. What was going on turned out a little weird, but still surprising. For sure Jessica sold it with her performance. Also agree, anyone who hasn't seen Martyrs needs to sit down this second and put it on! Great review!!!
HorrO, glad we agree on this one as well. I was very impressed by it, actually. I didn't see the twist coming at all, and the whole idea behind it was genius, IMO. Thank you, buddy.
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