Review of Funny Games (1997) by Ashley P — 02 Aug 2008

Michael Haneke's disturbing suburban nightmare is one of the most uneasy and unapologetically depraved films you will ever see. Haneke first decides to make the film contain virtually no violence, that is to say the majority happens off screen.

The film suggests that all violence, even fictional, may have a negative affect. In fact in many ways fictional violence can be more destructive than real life violence on the news, as film-makers and writers can selectively present emotional situations to build a connection.

Funny Games also engages its audience by breaking the fourth wall, asking us questions personally. It works surprisingly well and happens so out of the blue creates even more uncomfortable situations.

The climax is simply perfect, giving us the ending we all want and then tearing it away from us. Heart-pounding and fucking terrifying.