Review of Dogtooth (2009) by Luke K — 21 Dec 2015

Dogtooth is a strange and wholly original slow-burn drama from Greek director Yorgos Lanthimos, and is easily one of the most disturbing movies I've ever seen. It's hard to put into words how unnerving this film is, but the visceral and gut-wrenching impact it has is one of a kind. Dogtooth must be commended for its ability to get under your skin with very minimalist techniques. There is no shocking imagery, or gross-out sequences; the subject matter and themes of this film alone are what is so unsettling. It's themes of psychological imprisonment, incestuous trauma and domesticated sadism, and particularly their implication in stark, confronting realism and twisted dark comedy is what gives Dogtooth its perverse and horrific edge.

The film is well acted and confidently directed, and it's satirical and intelligent tone is strangely seductive. However, it's crawling pace will frustrate many viewers, and the ultimate payoff will divide many as being rewarding enough for the slow and arguably meandering journey. Personally, I am not in a hurry to watch Dogtooth again, but it's distinctly and powerfully disturbing approach and thematics make it an unforgettable and ultimately enriching experience for those curious enough to stomach a very harsh, hard-to-watch and upsetting view of family, love and the world. Whilst Dogtooth isn't necessarily an enjoyable film and is hard to recommend, it's daring ambition and originality must be respected, and while Lanthimos' vision is definitely not for everyone, you can't help but admire his boldness, ambition and finesse in realizing it.