review by Len Fearnside Patron
Killer Joe 2012
Watched Aug 11, 2012
Len Fearnside’s review:
It appears the McConaissance is upon us. He is a force of nature here and every moment he is on screen as Joe, he is absolutely riveting. Of course the same can be said for Juno Temple, who plays the young and simple Dottie so well, you can't help but want to wrap her up in a blanket and take her away from all of this dirt and death. Those two alone make for fascinating interplay, but the film does not stop there and we get amazing work from the rest of the cast too (Thomas Hayden Church is particularly fantastic and hilarious as the dimwitted Ansel). The storyline itself is nothing particularly new, but it is done so well, that it feels fresh and exciting. It's dark, disturbing, and very funny; after two great movies in a row, with Bug and Killer Joe, I sure as hell hope Friedkin and Letts collaborate again soon.
I'm hearing nothing but good things, can't wait to see this. Maybe I'll try to find Bug in the meantime, you've been recommending that one for a while
It seems crazy to say, but I think this movie was actually more accessible than Bug. Killer Joe has story elements and even characters that are, shockingly, a bit easier to relate to.
I think if you like Bug, then I cannot see how you could dislike Killer Joe at all, but if you like Killer Joe, I'm not sure it necessarily means you will like Bug. If that makes any sense.
Len: Good review; thanks. I'm looking forward to seeing this, but; will wait for the blu. Did you see it at VIFF?
Rick: Killer Joe sounds potentially better (to me) than "Bug" . I liked Bug; just not as much as Len.
I think Friedkin is a very underrated director. I have thoroughly enjoyed a lot of his films.
Nope, it's playing here right now at Tinseltown. Was surprisingly busy for a Noon screening too. Tangentially related to your question they just released the list of films from Cannes that will be playing at VIFF and I can say Holy Motors and Amour will be the top two films I am going to try and hit. Can't freaking wait.
The diversity of your tastes continue to amaze me, my friend.
Try to see a few new films without subtitles..will ya?
Amour was very well liked by critcs. Is this the film that some say ripped of a film called "Volcano"?
"ripped off"
Hmm, not sure about that one Bill; the only Volcano movie I know is the one with Tommy Lee Jones, about a Volcano in Los Angeles. Regardless, I love Haneke's style (I mean Caché is one of my favourite films ever) and can't wait to see what he does next.
Len: I read too much film info sometimes and forget my sources. "Volcano" (from Norway or Iceland?) was a hit at Cannes and apparently was very, very similar to Amour, which came soon after.(maybe it was a dream?) You would be better at checking the net for the info. I could be mistaken. (A quick check only lists the "Volcano" you mentioned) You would be a way better researcher. :)
Either way I'm sure it's a good film. Many critics loved it!
Len, I understand from Lise that you're the reason she picked Killer Joe for tonight's bit of entertainment. Thank You!
Showbill, it sounded familiar so I searched. Found it:
Volcano I'm definitely going to try to see that.
Hah, glad to help Jonathan! :D Looks like you guys liked it as much as I did, which is great. Looking forward to reading your full reviews!