Revenge

Coralie Fargeat's 'Revenge' tries to flip the revenge thriller genre on its head, but while it has some interesting ideas, it also stumbles along the way. The film gives us a visually striking experience, yet its pacing sometimes feels as off as its tonal shifts.

The Start of a Dark Escape

In 'Revenge', we follow Jen, played by Matilda Lutz, who is looking to escape her life with a luxurious getaway with her wealthy married boyfriend, Richard. Their romantic weekend takes a dark turn when Richard's friends crash the party for a hunting trip. What unfolds is a tense standoff that spirals into violence, confronting the themes of betrayal, survival, and revenge. As Jen fights back against her aggressors after a traumatic event, the film shifts from a typical suspense narrative to a visceral exploration of vengeance in a secluded desert backdrop. It’s a narrative packed with impulsive decisions and escalating tension, albeit not without its flaws.

A Cast That Lacks Depth

Matilda Lutz delivers a commendable performance as Jen, embodying both vulnerability and resilience as she transforms throughout the film's harrowing events. However, the supporting cast, including Kevin Janssens as Richard, feels underdeveloped. Their characters come off as one-dimensional, primarily serving as antagonists rather than fully fleshed individuals. This lack of depth in character development diminishes the overall stakes of the film. The focus on Jen overshadows the others, making their motivations seem thin and sometimes cartoonish, which detracts from the dramatic impact of the story's darker moments.

Visual Boldness, Pacing Issues

Fargeat employs a bold visual style that often juxtaposes the serene desert setting against the brutal violence that unfolds, creating an unsettling contrast. The cinematography is striking, with intentional framing that highlights the isolation and beauty of the location, yet its artistic choices can feel excessive at times. The pacing suffers from moments that linger too long on aesthetic shots, shifting the tone from urgent to sluggish, which can pull the audience out of the narrative. While there are memorable visual motifs, the overall direction could benefit from a tighter edit to maintain suspense without losing engagement.

Intensity with Mixed Feelings

Watching 'Revenge' can evoke a mix of feelings; while some scenes are undeniably intense and visceral, there are also stretches that feel drawn out and repetitive. The film aims to elicit sympathy for Jen, yet its heavy-handed approach to horror and vengeance can lead to moments of disconnect. Rather than building tension consistently, it sometimes shifts into gratuitous territory, which may frustrate viewers looking for substance over sheer shock. As the film progresses, the emotional weight feels somewhat diluted by the pacing, making it hard to remain fully invested in Jen's plight during the quieter moments.