Review of Black Book (2006) by Sam B — 22 Nov 2008
It's not without the sex and violence he's known for, but Paul Verhoeven's first Dutch-language film in over 20 years is much more serious and expertly done than many of his previous films.
Verhoeven is known for entertaining trash like SHOWGIRLS, TOTAL RECALL, BASIC INSTINCT, STARSHIP TROOPERS and ROBOCOP. This is the first film of his that not only was I impressed by it, but it's the first film of his that I've seen that I fealt he was completely personally invested in the story.
Which is understandable seeing how he grew up in Holland during this time. It's not a perfect film, it's a tad pulpy, but I like pulpy. And Carice van Houten gets naked a few too many times. Don't get me wrong, I like naked ladies as much as the next fella, but is it integral to the plot to see her bleach her pubic hair? That aside, I still thought it was an excellent tale of how people aren't necessarily black and white, but are varying shades of gray.
This review of Black Book (2006) was written by Sam B on 22 Nov 2008.
Black Book has generally received very positive reviews.
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