Review of Teeth (2000) by Evan K — 01 Nov 2009

This movie had a lot of potential... and I'm very disappointed. I'll just list what I did and did not like about this movie. (Warning: spoilers).

What I liked:

1. This movie took the sexist vagina dentata myth and twisted it in a way that it gives the female character (Dawn) power.

2. It showed that, contrary to what some people believe, rape victims aren't attacked for "dressing provocatively" or any such nonsense, and they're often not attacked by some stranger in a dark alley--they're often acquaintances, someone you know, or even someone you trust (which is also appropriate for a horror movie...scary truth).

3. Showed a little bit of the ridiculousness of abstinence only education.

4. Although she is a victim at first, later she has power--unlike a lot of horror movies that demean women.

5. Dawn attacked Ryan after he very rudely picked up his phone while they were having sex and talked crudely about her, like she's just some piece of meat.

6. It's kinda funny in some parts.

What I did NOT like:

1. The number of times Dawn is attacked and taken advantage of is excessive.

2. The idea that a man will rape because he's "not getting any.".

3. That, even though she was drugged and just endured some very traumatizing events, Dawn "consented" to having sex with Ryan. And even called him her "hero." It's as if the director doesn't think date rape is actually rape.

4. This goes along with number 1. The amount of terrible, despicable men is excessive. The only man that doesn't seem to have any evil intentions is Dawn's father.

5. Some of the messages and characters weren't very consistent.

6. It can be very uncomfortable, and even excruciating, to watch.