Review of Martha Marcy May Marlene (2011) by Alex M — 15 Oct 2013
As haunting as it is disturbing, Martha Marcy May Marlene is a harrowing psychological tale of a woman who tries to escape the life a maniacal cult. And it's through Elizabeth Olsen's extremely convincing (if not perfect) performance that we can see just how dangerous this cult actually is.
Director T. Sean Durkin utilizes subtle but effective direction to keep viewers sympathetic for Martha as we watch her descent into madness grow deeper and deeper yet manages to keep the humane side to it all and not over indulge the audience with obvious cult activities.
He gives life to the cult by showing day to day events and keeping an eye on their leader and that in turn makes them an even more believable threat than simply people needing a sacrifice. While it does slow here and there, Martha Marcy May Marlene is a film that quickly gets back on it's horse and ends the race with an ending that you saw coming but still prayed it wouldn't.
This review of Martha Marcy May Marlene (2011) was written by Alex M on 15 Oct 2013.
Martha Marcy May Marlene has generally received positive reviews.
Was this review helpful?
