Good cinema is all about the experience - and in no genre is that more true than horror. Without a believable atmosphere no horror film can produce an ounce of sweat from its audience.
Most horror films fail because the focus is first and foremost on the antagonist. The artisans behind such features put most (if not all) of their creative juices into developing the most horrifying monster possible - instead of crafting a story focused on the plight of the protagonists.
Horror films should exploit the fear of the unknown - it's not what you see - it's about what you don't; Jaws is a masterpiece because it effectively exploits our fear of the dark realm underneath the vast ocean.
Why am I pontificating about the problems with today's horror films?And why bring this up while reviewing Cloverfield? The obvious answer: Cloverfield is a horror film - at least it is to me. And it's one of the best I've seen in years. (Other good recent horror flicks include the two 28 Days films and Legend.)
Cloverfield succeeds where so many other films fail because it establishes an atmosphere of dread - albeit slowly, like a pot of boiling water. Normally, I hate when humor is used in horror films -but in Cloverfiled it is used appropriately -- with a light touch, in strategically placed scenes to temporarily diffuse the anxiety that builds throughout the film.
While the loose cinematography (à la Blair Witch Project) in Cloverfield supports an immersive experience - the technique alone isn't the main reason you'll feel connected with the story. The source of that connection is the intimate portrayal of Rob Hawkins (Michael Stahl-David) - the main protagonist of the story - and his circle of friends.
Rob's an early 30 something, well heeled, and headed for a big job in Japan. To celebrate his success and say "goodbye" his friends throw him a surprise party. What starts out as a weddingesque series of testimonials turns into a completely different type of documentary when all hell breaks loose in Manhattan.
Hudd Platt (T.J. Miller) is Rob's best friend and camera man for much of the film; his stream of conscious variety of banter adds to the"real" feeling that the film tries to portray. And his quixotic pursuit of the cold fish Marleen Diamond (Lizzy Caplan) adds another layer of richness to the story.
While the film is excellent there are a few things that could be improved. In a few instances, for example, the actors weren't as intense (emotionally speaking) as they could have been. Also, there's a slight problem with the passage of time in the film - but that's just a nitpicky criticism.
Another issue -- if you suffer from motion sickness you'll will find Cloverfiled difficult to watch - and quite likely you'll fill nauseated throughout the film. Consider yourself warned.
Cloverfiled is the type of film that should be watched on the big screen. And to enjoy the film I suggest sitting in a location where you can't see anyone between you and the screen. To do that you may have to sit closer than you'd normally - but trust me, it's worth it.
Rating: 4 and 1/3 Lightsabers
Check out the official Cloverfield trailer
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