Review of Shoot 'Em Up (2007) by Destine M — 31 Mar 2013

I like to think of this movie as a metaphorical "sorting hat" for film critics, because you're opinion of this film will ultimately determine what house of film critic you belong to.

"Shoot 'Em Up" is a prime example of a modern day exploitation film, a rare genre whose films, in the present day, are often judged as "bad" before they're even given a chance. This is upsetting, since the exploitation genre has turned out many unforgettable films; to put it bluntly, it's the kind of genre that's been nearly killed off by the rise of film critics.

However, "Shoot 'Em Up" proves that the genre is still alive and kicking. It's a non-stop, hard-boiled, ultra-violent, hyper-cartoonish action flick that doesn't take itself too seriously and brings new meaning to the term "going too far." This film "goes too far," and then it goes even further. And then it kills a man with a raw carrot.

Exploitation films. John Woo. The "Crank" movies. If you love these things, chances are that you'll love this film.

And to those of you who think that this film is pure moral garbage....you're absolutely right.

(to be fair, the movie does at least teach us to eat our vegetables).