Review of Maniac (2012) by Kallie S — 14 Oct 2013

French remake of the infamous 1980's slasher cult classic of the same name, this film may be in English and shot in Los Angeles but it has far more in common with The French Shock Horror genre than anything you're likely to think of in current American cinema.

Elijah Wood gives a strong and oddly sympathetic performance as "Frank" the scalping serial killer. MANIAC is not for everyone. This film goes far beyond an R-rated level of sadism and violence.

However, it is a highly stylized and odd twist to a familiar genre. This film does not have the tone I would associate with "torture porn" but it most certainly pushes the envelop. The cinematography and use of sound and musical score is highly effective.

Franck Khalfoun's idea of filming nearly all of the movie from POV of the killer is not only original but forces the audience to squirm as we are put into the eyes of this sadistic killer. Though the idea of the abused and damaged child/man and his "mommy issues" is nothing new - it is presented in a different sort of twist.

There is no humor here. Khalfoun is playing it straight and real. It may not be pleasant and it may be uncomfortable but there is no denying the artistic skill that has gone into creating an oddly original horror film.

It is easy to see why many are already considering this a new cult classic. Normally, I would find a film like this offensive. However, the cinematic twist of forcing the viewer to stand in the shoes of the killer and the fact that I felt such concern and horror for the fate of the victims provides an interesting impact.

There can be no denying the artistic skill of this effort. And, while I feel a bit uncomfortable admitting it -- I found this film fascinating and unforgettable.