On this page: ODYSSEY | PAUL & PAULETTE TAKE A BATH | 213 BONES

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With a wonderfully shaded performance, Maberly manages to keep Natasha sympathetic even though she's the self-delusional architect of her pain. Essentially a fast-talker who has pushed her luck, Natasha shouts at the world and burns her bridges. But Maberly plays her as complex, messy and human. Persbrandt is coolly mesmerising as the Viking, offering glimpses into Natasha's past. And her lowlife associates are similarly textured. This allows the film to tell a story that transcends the darkness of her journey.

Properly tense scenes bristle with tiny nuances that add powerful emotions in places we never expect them. So there are scenes that are difficult to watch because they so adeptly present the harsh wrinkles in an increasingly nasty situation. The most amazing thing about this film is that Johnson keeps us completely on Natasha's side, rooting for her against the odds. But we can't help wondering if anyone will be left standing at the chilling end.

themes, language, violence

25.Aug.25

Both Galiana and Benati deliver earthy performances that are underscored by a sense of yearning. Paul and Paulette connect deeply, even if they don't know much about each other, And as they drop their defences, things get increasingly textured between them. There's certainly a sexual attraction here, and Galiana beautifully reveals Paul's doe-eyed adoration, while Benati holds Paulette's cards a bit closer to her chest. Surrounding characters also register strongly as they impact this central duo.

While the twists and turns of the narrative are unpredictable and fascinating, they also often feel somewhat undercooked. Inexplicable detains abound, leading to actions that sometimes feel abrupt or implausible. And the continual references to mass murderers begin to feel a little too clever for their own good, leaving us wondering if gimmickry is the only reason they're here. Still, the film's unusual approach makes it gripping. And it leaves us with a lot to ponder.

themes, language, violence

21.Jul.25

Performances from the ensemble cast are superbly understated, creating believable people who are easy to identify with. Only one actor gets to tilt into high camp nuttiness when the murderer is revealed, and another remains a dark horse until the very end. Otherwise, they all remain likeable and complex, with amusing standout moments that offer the occasional unexpected jolt en route to the blood-soaked but oddly sweet resolution, which of course includes an added sting in the tail.

Because the film is directed skilfully, without resorting to cheap cinematic trickery, its hold on the audience is unusually intense despite the fact that there's little going on in the way of subtext. In other words, watching this is thoroughly entertaining in a way that isn't terribly demanding. We honestly don't care why this is happening, so it actually makes sense when the killer answers that question by asking, "Why not?" Indeed, it doesn't matter when we're having so much fun.

themes, language, violence

25.Aug.25