Review of Repulsion (1965) by Heressssss J — 23 Feb 2011

Repulsion is a psychological thriller directed by Roman Polanski, and stars Catherine Deneuve, Ian Hendry, John Fraser, Yvonne Furneaux.

Repulsion is about a young woman named Carol is suffers from a variety of social and psychological disorders. When Carol's sister Helen leaves her alone for a few days in there apartment, Carol spirals down into a deep state of paranoia and insanity.

Over the past few years I have become a great admirer of Roman Polanski's work, so when I finally had the chance to watch Repulsion my expectations were quite high. I was very pleased to find that this was a fantastic film, and is on par with Polanski's other great works.

The plot is somewhat simple but at the same time manages to be extremely effective. Most of the movie takes place in a small apartment, bringing feelings of claustrophobia and isolation. The viewer himself can almost feel the sense of heightened paranoia Carol is experiencing, which makes the story all the more involving.

Repulsion is impressive acting-wise as well, with a stellar leading performance from Catherine Deneuve. Deneuve does not say much in this film, but does more acting with here facial expressions and mannerisms. You can see the fear and hysteria just by looking into her eyes, thats something special in itself.

Overall, Repulsion is a landmark film in Roman Polanski's filmography and one that seems to be overlooked a lot of the time. If you want an good atmospheric and creepy thriller, then this is the place to look.