Review of Clean, Shaven (1995) by Eric P — 11 Nov 2007

This is an experimental film in the purest sense. Its use of layered sound as a medium for storytelling is unparalleled. Through all the confusion in the soundtrack, we enter and experience Peter's world. Jay Rabinowitz edited the film, and this is a fantastic early example of his talent -- far before he would work on Requiem For A Dream, which I would argue is one of the benchmarks of editing bravura in cinema.

Director Lodge Kerrigan does an admirable job in portraying schizophrenia in a way that has never been seen before on film. This is a disturbing film, and not an easy one to watch, but it is a necessary one. The cinematography is equally interesting and provocative.

I think the big weakness of the film is in the form of the detective character, who does not seem to have any type of motivation behind his rather strange behavior. We are left guessing why he behaves in certain unconventional ways. Perhaps he is somewhat schizophrenic as well? I suppose this "void" is a directorial decision such that we cannot and should not fully understand the events that transpired. I'm not sure it works for me.