Review of Man Bites Dog (1992) by Tyler W — 15 Feb 2010

This black and white 'documentary' about a serial killer/robber is disturbing yet a comical film. Stunning performance by Benoit Poelvoorde and the outstanding direction make this a must see. Before I saw this I always thought all these mockumentary movies owed heavily to The Blair Witch Project but this is by far the best executed one.

Such a tragedy that one of the directors (and actors) Remy Belvaux committed suicide in 2006. The crew follow Benoit as he murders and rapes his way around town. Those closest to him have no idea who he really is except Valarie, a female friend who knows who Ben really is.

I found myself laughing one second and highly disturbed the next. This is why I think it is such a effective film. I don't know what or if the director were trying to say with this film. I came away with as a society we are violent and somewhat use to violence.

So much that this 'crew' is following and even participating in the violent acts of Ben. Maybe the crew is a metaphor for us? The deep thinking aside, definitely one of the best dark comedies ever made.

Check it out!