Review of Perfume: The Story of a Murderer (2006) by Liz G — 02 Jan 2010

Very rarely have I ever called a movie beautiful. This flick if any, deserves it. Every aspect of this film blew me away and it reinforces the power of storytelling. I love good narration, especially when it's all raspy and done by John Hurt, and the devices the movie uses are perfect.

Sweeping cinematography, mega closeups, quick cuts and perfect performances from all, the story is what is strongest and is what drives everything. Story these days is hard to find, well a good one anyway, and don't be put off by it's running time - it unravels itself nicely, the timing and pacing is perfect, and the ending will rattle you.

You think you know whats going on, you think you know what trick is going to be pulled, but then they turn you upside down and mind fuck you. Right after you've been mind fucked once, be sure to make room.

Another one is coming. Harder. Jaw dropping is a term that can be used, and my jaw unhinged itself and just hung from the corner of my head. It hurts me when I think of the costuming and make-up and all design aspects - that is how amazing it all was.

This flick puts the period in 'period piece.' [What?] Anyway, I love showing this movie to people and watching them, rather than the movie. It's fun. So let me watch you watch this movie. I own it.

And the soundtrack. Beautiful. Just beautiful.