Review of Tom at the Farm (2014) by Scott B — 21 Aug 2015

There is no doubt that Xavier Dolan knows how to make an interesting film. This one did more than hold my interest, it kept me on the edge of my seat. The idea and often the execution of the film is amazing. The problem with this largely experimental cinematic stew of grief, rage, oppressed desires and identity confusion simmer but the contents never quite brew into anything that satisfies.

While it is clear that Dolan is attempting to create some psychological twist of victim eroticizing his victimizer -- it never feels real. And then the damaged psyche seems to snap out of the issue over a petty jealousy and sudden realization of danger. It doesn't sell or fit.

"Tom At The Farm" is full of merit. It is not a wasted view, but it feels like a concept Claude Chabrol might have created, but pushed aside. Not a bad film by a far stretch, but Dolan is well capable of better. An interesting cinematic pause just before he made the superiorly crafted "Mommy.".