"Calvaire" (2004)

March 13, 2023, 11:15 a.m. Evelyn Lark

"Calvaire" (2004)

Calvaire is a Belgian horror movie directed by Fabrice Du Welz and released in 2004. The film tells the story of Marc, a struggling singer who gets lost in the woods on his way to a performance and ends up stranded in a remote village. There, he encounters Bartel, an unstable innkeeper who becomes obsessed with him and refuses to let him leave.

The plot of Calvaire is slow-burning and unsettling, with the film exploring themes of isolation, obsession, and the breakdown of sanity. The tone of the movie is bleak and oppressive, with a sense of dread and hopelessness building throughout. The characters are flawed and complex, with Bartel in particular being a disturbing and unpredictable presence on screen.

The acting in Calvaire is outstanding, with strong performances from the entire cast, particularly Laurent Lucas as Marc and Jackie Berroyer as Bartel. Their interactions are tense and uncomfortable, with each scene adding to the overall feeling of unease.

The direction by Fabrice Du Welz is masterful, with the film's pacing and tension building steadily throughout. The score of the movie, composed by Vincent Cahay and Pierre Gerard, is haunting and adds to the movie's overall atmosphere.

The cinematography and production design of Calvaire are also noteworthy, with the movie's visuals capturing the eerie and isolated atmosphere of the village and its inhabitants. The special effects and editing are top-notch, creating some truly disturbing and unsettling scenes.

The dialog in Calvaire is sparse, with the movie relying more on visual and emotional elements to convey its story. The themes of obsession and the breakdown of sanity are explored in a visceral and unnerving way, leaving a lasting impact on the viewer.

Interesting facts about the movie include that it was initially banned in Russia due to its disturbing content, and it has been noted for its influence on the "New French Extremity" movement in horror cinema.

In conclusion, Calvaire is a slow-burning and unsettling horror movie that will leave a lasting impression on its viewers. While it may not be for everyone, those who appreciate the artistry of horror filmmaking and can stomach its disturbing content will find much to admire in this disturbing and effective film.

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"Calvaire" (2004)

"Calvaire" (2004)

"Calvaire" (2004)

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