Review of Straw Dogs (1971) by Tor M — 21 Jul 2016
One of the most brutal films of the early 70's and long time banned piece from director Sam Peckinpah. A man that seemed pretty controversial since I've been reading about things like prostitutes of set and scenes done without pants for "more fitting reactions" in this film. Well, offbeat people seem to make great films, this is the first one from the guy for me.
Brutal rape, shotgun kills, terror and harassment are some ingredients here. May it be one of the first films with rape scenes? Anyhow, highly controversial back then and it still does leave a strong impression, and a mild sense of confusion. Almost spooky, quirky, weird when it comes to presentation. The relationship between David and Amy are shifting and varied. Both do excellent parts here by the way. Susan George portraying Amy with her mighty fine looks and splendid unstable lady material, while Dustin Hoffman is doing great as the boring, too polite man with some rage issues.
I like the LP-player move near the end. The boiling oil trick was also nice. A very good thriller that stands the test of time. One of the first so-called "revenge films" out there I believe and I enjoyed it a whole lot. I can't help of thinking about "Funny Games", maybe even "A Clockwork Orange".
8.5 out of 10 bear traps.
This review of Straw Dogs (1971) was written by Tor M on 21 Jul 2016.
Straw Dogs has generally received positive reviews.
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