olivia’s review published on Letterboxd:
grueling and unholy and altogether difficult to get through, raw will test its viewer and push them close to their limits, without asking for permission for any of its transgressions, and taking no prisoners in the process. the uncompromising and shocking body horror was ruthless and aggressive, while still showcasing such artistic sensitivity, and that's a delicate balance to strike. it was an impressive display of the careful crafting of extremism. the visceral cinematography paired with the incredible soundtrack and gorgeous acting performances make for a really emotionally moving piece. some scenes are sparse or pretty vacant on dialogue, but honestly i think it was better that way and gives the viewer room to breathe (which is a much needed reprieve). at first i thought i hated this, but after reflection, contemplation and the act of letting the movie digest and settle, i think i can say that i actually loved it. raw was gravely animalistic (you decide whether i mean that literally or figuratively), and i will surely not be forgetting it any time soon. for some reason lately i've been responding favorably to some challenging arthouse material, and here is no different. this film was profound in an intensely nauseating (but gripping) kind of way, and demanded to overpower with its wrestling abrasion. are all your extremities still there? you better check.. final parting thought: contracted wishes it was raw.
(part of my priority watchlist of 2019)
(part of my pinned reviews list)