Review of Straw Dogs (1971) by Daniel A — 16 Dec 2011
Still somewhat challenging today, one can only imagine the furore Sam Peckinpah's brave thriller would have caused back in 1971. Most notable for its brutal rape scene where protagonist Amy, played admirably by British actress Susan George, appears to be torn between spurning her attacker's advances and welcoming them with open arms (and legs), the film asks questions that viewers can still wrestle with today.
Peckinpah's uncompromising direction has provided us with a very interesting meditation on the nature of violence and consequently our reactions to it. Dustin Hoffman, playing Amy's husband David, is quite brilliant (when isn't he?) showing the development and inner turmoil of his character, before the switch in his head trips in time for the heavily violent finale.
Straw Dogs is no easy watch, but it is a rewarding one, guaranteed to spark reactions in all who see it.
This review of Straw Dogs (1971) was written by Daniel A on 16 Dec 2011.
Straw Dogs has generally received positive reviews.
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