Unusual, unsettling and uncompromising, Martha Marcy May Marlene is a drama that deserves your attention.
But then, mainstream thriller may be the most inappropriate label to apply toMartha.
In fact, applying any kind of label is a tricky one.
SoMarthathe film and Martha the character remain constantly fascinating, because its hard to know where either is heading.
Beyond that, youre on your own.
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Its a tension that Durkin refuses to release.
He doesnt give us a way out, or any cathartic explosion of violence to pop the balloon.
You know those Hollywood thrillers that end with a flourish of violence?
A triumph of good over evil, of meek protagonist victorious over menacing antagonist?
Marthais filled with unsettling moments, making it far from the ideal date movie.
Yet thats also what makes it a film you shouldnt wait to come out on DVD.
Durkin deserves much of the praise.
Thats understandable, perhaps.
Hawkes plays his sinister cult leader with a surface charm that makes you fear what must be underneath.
And its whats underneathMartha Marcy May Marlenethat will stay with you.
It is just that, but for all the right reasons.
Rating:
4 out of 5
