Review of The Hunt (2013) by Lucas Y — 21 Jan 2014

I haven't done a review in a month, but felt it necessary after viewing 'The Hunt'. Easily one of the best films I'll see this year. I haven't seen many of the other Oscar noms, but I can already safely assume American cinema isn't capable of making something like this.

And if they are, it would never get financed and ok'd by producers. The closest I've seen an American film get this type of message across would have to be 'Hard Candy' and 'American Beauty' although this is still far different than the two.

Headed by Mads Mikkelsen whom I'm familiar with for his work on the NBC series, 'Hanibal' in which he plays the title role. The depth of his character is insane. The rest of the cast are a bunch of unknown Danish actors whom I'm completely unfamiliar with, but were all excellent.

This is definitely one of overall best acted films I've ever seen. Mads is pretty much on camera 95% of the film, but the other characters definitely have their moments. The little girl, Klara steals every scene she's in.

What an incredible role for such a young girl to tackle. The screenplay is tight, effective and builds itself all the way till the end. The director paces the film brilliantly and the cinematography fits the tone to perfection.

I wasn't quite sure how they were going to end it and initially I felt they were going to pull a surprise ending in which it would be revealed that Lucas did in fact molest Klara. Lucas never really told anybody "no" that he didn't.

He just kinda let them form their own opinion. Secondly, he never seemed that interested in his girlfriend who basically forced herself upon him. And finally, the shot of Klara standing by her fathers stairwell (one of the most unintentionally frightening shots I've seen) made me think Lucas had molested her there, or possibly her father did.

But after the ending I realized that wasn't the intention of the screenwriters and director. I believe the films message was to show that people (especially women) will do anything to protect children.

And if a man is suspected of being a pedophile society will jump to conclusions quick and it will never be forgotten. The final scene pretty much clarifies that. Even after a year has passed and it looks like all is back to normal, Lucas will always have eyes on his back and the past will always leave someone bitter.

Like Lester Burnham in American Beauty, society hates those who do things non traditionally. Lucas certainly went about his situation non traditionally, which is why I had my initial thoughts. Overall an amazing and unique film experience.

Highly recommend!