Review of The Vicious Kind (2009) by Mark A — 31 Mar 2010
A powerfully dark tale of obsession, lust, and betrayal that plays out over a Thanksgiving weekend, somewhere in the Northeast. The bleak scenery fits the story, highlighting the barrenness of the characters and physically affecting the viewer.
The cast and script are superb, with each character fully fleshed out and enough back story to make the tale completely accessible, without becoming tedious. Adam Scott as the older brother, Caleb, deserves special mention in that regard.
This viewer was blown away by his performance as the deeply disturbed older son with psychological wounds hanging out all over him. There is a subtlety in the way things unfold that require the viewer to have to work to understand the dynamics.
This is not all wrapped up in pretty paper with hearts and flowers, but delves into the psyche of the four main characters, the two brothers, the girlfriend, and the boys' father. In the end, we are not left with the feeling that things will work out very well for the two young lovers.
There is no fairy tale ending, but there is opportunity for growth and healing, and in that there is a glimmer of light.
This review of The Vicious Kind (2009) was written by Mark A on 31 Mar 2010.
The Vicious Kind has generally received positive reviews.
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