Review of American Mary (2013) by Glenn C — 04 Mar 2013

I recently reviewed Excision and touted it one of the best horror films of the decade. American Mary evokes the same reaction. This is an instant classic and it's destined to become a cult favourite and will no doubt propel The Soska Sisters to staple and reliable names in horror.

They previously directed Dead Hooker In A Trunk (great little flick), which served as an impressive debut movie but it looks second rate compared to American Mary. The Soskas have obviously learned from their experiences and matured.

'Mary' looks amazing and its constructed meticulously. Where Dead Hooker could have used a shorter running time with a few omissions American Mary seems perfect. It's quirky, brutal and original.

Mary Mason is a struggling surgical student who unwillingly becomes caught up in a seedy business venture where she performs body modifications to an alternative clientele. Word spreads of her talents and she can't hold back the referrals.

Something awful happens to her just as she's finding her stride and suddenly Mary turns her skills into a twisted revenge. Katherine Isabelle is known to horror fans for her lead role in the Ginger Snaps trilogy (amongst others) and this is a career defining performance.

Few horror films come along that make me want to re-watch them immediately after the credits have rolled... Mary is one of them. The Australian release by Monster Pictures is fantastic with two commentary tracks, one of which is exclusive to Australian audiences.

The Soska Sisters recorded a commentary in Melbourne and aren't bound by any censorship whatsoever. They offer an insightful conversation and talk on a level that all genre fans can appreciate and relate to.

I can't wait to introduce people to American Mary and I definitely can't wait for Jen & Sylvia's next films.