Review of Mysterious Skin (2005) by Rachael N — 09 Jul 2008
Mysterious Skin features some of the most disturbing scenes I have ever seen and throughout watching it, I debated whether to switch it off at several points during the film due to how uncomfortable it made me feel. Yet I am so glad that I stuck with it because it truly is one of the most remarkable films I have ever seen.
The film deals with several issues such as prostitution, rape and molestation - all issues which can often be trivialised or feel exploitative within a film. However, Mysterious Skin explores each of these (as well as many more) without feeling contrived. Credit is due to Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Brady Corbett for acting so convincingly throughout the film, I defy anyone not to feel disturbed yet moved at the closing scene in the film.
Despite the harrowing subject matter, the film is shot beautifully with an impressive shoegaze score to match, both making the subject matter at the core of the film seem even more shocking and disturbing. Araki has truly made an exceptional film which although painful, is incredibly thought provoking and any film which stirs up that sort of emotion and feeling is wothwhile in my eyes.
This review of Mysterious Skin (2005) was written by Rachael N on 09 Jul 2008.
Mysterious Skin has generally received very positive reviews.
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