"Ms .45" (1981) is a gritty and provocative revenge thriller directed by Abel Ferrara that pushes the boundaries of the genre. Set in New York City's seedy underbelly, the film follows Thana, a mute seamstress who, after suffering two brutal assaults in one day, embarks on a violent crusade against men.
Zoë Lund delivers a powerful, wordless performance as Thana, conveying a range of emotions from vulnerability to rage through her expressive eyes and body language. Ferrara's direction is raw and unflinching, capturing the grime and danger of early 1980s New York with a visceral intensity.
The film's exploration of trauma, gender dynamics, and vigilantism is both disturbing and thought-provoking. While the violence is shocking, it serves a purpose in depicting Thana's transformation and the cycle of abuse. The haunting score and stylized cinematography enhance the film's nightmarish quality.
"Ms .45" is not for the faint of heart, but it remains a cult classic that challenges viewers and sparks discussions about sexual violence and female empowerment. It's a bold, uncompromising work that showcases Ferrara's early promise as a filmmaker.