Review of Misery (1990) by Partha A — 12 Aug 2011

You know, before seeing a movie called "Misery," the last way I'd expect to describe it is "a lot of fun," but that's exactly what this movie is. For such a potentially horrifying setup, Misery never stops reminding you that it's all just a movie, and don't you dare stop being entertained. With it's overbearing soundtrack, playful meta knocks at art criticism and celebrity worship, and a curiously lighthearted atmosphere, it's not exactly something that will terrify (at worst, this is a "cringe and laugh" type of horror, like the best b-movies, but calling it as such cheapens its strengths).

It's all the fun of a dumb 80's goofy horror flick (I know, 1990), but without actually being dumb; fantastic performances all around, a script that digs beneath the surface, and some great, energetic direction from Rob Reiner.

Just remember - the next time you see a celebrity and feel the urge to run up and gush, there's a fairly good chance that to them you look exactly like Annie and her sledgehammer.