Review of Straw Dogs (1971) by Shahriar A — 28 Dec 2010
This is one of the most interesting character study and story about machoisms I came across in a very long time. Essentially every character in the film is at the same time flawed and good. Dustin Hoffman appear to be the ultimate coward and pacifist. The only thing in the world he cares about it seems is his blackboard and formulas. But at the end of the film we see in the blink of an eye how he turns into a total violent lunatic. Amy at the same time seems childish, yet insightful; flirtation yet loyal. When Charlie is raping her, the transformation from being raped to enjoying it was done quite masterfully by her. Even the rapist charlie is an interesting character - you cant label him as either good or bad. At the end, he guns down his partner in crime when that guy wanted to make a move on Amy.
This is a fantastic film, showcasing what a fantastic director in film history Sam Peckinpah could have been if he didnt indulge in drugs and alcohol. This is the film that sets the trend for later "Violence by non violent people" theme movie like the classic "Last house on the Left". But none till date was as masterfully created as this one.
This review of Straw Dogs (1971) was written by Shahriar A on 28 Dec 2010.
Straw Dogs has generally received positive reviews.
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