People don't seem to really like this movie, but I think that's because it shows us a side of human nature we don't really want to see. In the ultimate position of chosing to help others or throw them under the bus for our own sake, most people don't want to admit which choice they'd take. An excellent film that shows us that our morality is ultimately as flexible as our circumstances dictate
189 Reviews
Passable film
crazykittieboy4 November 2013
Would You Rather takes an interesting look at a common children's game, playing it for the delight of a rich man with far too much money. The plot tells a story of a young girl whose younger brother lives with her after her parents have passed on, leaving nothing but mounting debt. Her brother is dying, her house has been sold, and ever job lead seems to fall through. One day somebody offers to pay for everything and find her brother a donor, at a price.
This being said, the piece was decently acted, standouts being that of Sasha Grey and the always delightful Jeffrey Combs (Re-Animator). The movie found ways to make you cringe without ever resorting to full on sight gore, the worst parts were left heavily to the imagination. This was a film that actually benefited from a lower budget, seeing that in a heavy budget one might be forced to see the over usage of all the stunts.
The movie is certainly not without its faults, first and most prominently is the lack of a decent score. The film never really utilizes music to draw you in, which is especially noticeable at the beginning and end of the film. The ending also felt so flat that it could hardly produce sympathy from the audience, an attempt to cater to the twist-necessitating crowd that has been delved since Saw's low budget first film hit our eyes. Unfortunately, it is such a negative that it makes one wonder if the whole damn first 30 minutes of the film were worth anything. This also repeats itself with a worthless subplot involving the doctor. The amount of filler placed within this movie alone degrades it, and unfortunately tampers an otherwise great horror gem to unnecessary viewing.
For all the gripes, though, the film does its job when it finally gets there. If I were to simply judge the 2nd act of this film it would get an easy 9, however, that being said, I believe a 6 is not only fair but accurate.
This being said, the piece was decently acted, standouts being that of Sasha Grey and the always delightful Jeffrey Combs (Re-Animator). The movie found ways to make you cringe without ever resorting to full on sight gore, the worst parts were left heavily to the imagination. This was a film that actually benefited from a lower budget, seeing that in a heavy budget one might be forced to see the over usage of all the stunts.
The movie is certainly not without its faults, first and most prominently is the lack of a decent score. The film never really utilizes music to draw you in, which is especially noticeable at the beginning and end of the film. The ending also felt so flat that it could hardly produce sympathy from the audience, an attempt to cater to the twist-necessitating crowd that has been delved since Saw's low budget first film hit our eyes. Unfortunately, it is such a negative that it makes one wonder if the whole damn first 30 minutes of the film were worth anything. This also repeats itself with a worthless subplot involving the doctor. The amount of filler placed within this movie alone degrades it, and unfortunately tampers an otherwise great horror gem to unnecessary viewing.
For all the gripes, though, the film does its job when it finally gets there. If I were to simply judge the 2nd act of this film it would get an easy 9, however, that being said, I believe a 6 is not only fair but accurate.
Fun Character Study
gregsrants31 March 2013
Sadistic wealthy people always spell trouble for the downtrodden or down on their luck. 13 Tzameti, Hard Target and Hostel are all good examples of the wealthy torturing and killing the less fortunate for the purpose of their own entertainment.
The latest such cinematic example is Would You Rather. Starring Brittany Snow (Pitch Perfect), Sasha Grey (my personal hard drive), Robb Wells (Hobo with a Shotgun), and John Heard (Home Alone), Would You Rather gathers a group of strangers for a wealthy aristocrat, played by Jeffrey Combs (Re-Animator) who pits his guests against each other in sadistic games where they have to choose between two options – each of which can either cause pain or death to themselves or another guest.
So guests are put in awkward positions of having to decide whether to electrocute themselves or someone else or whether to whip a guest or stab another. Attempt to leave the game and you will be shot. Take too long to decide on the lesser of the two options and you will be killed. The goal is to become the last person standing and the reward differs on the needs of each individual.
The main character to which the movie focuses around the table is Iris (Snow). She agrees to be part of the unrevealed game in an effort to provide for her ailing brother. She is the first to be tested with an offer to eat portions of a steak in return for $1,000 (being a vegetarian, it was a tough decision). But as the evening draws further, Iris and the others will be forced to make decisions inflicting unspeakable pain towards the other participants.
Stealing the movie is Combs. He commands a presence at the top of the table and his evil is believable in large thanks to his charismatic and demented portrayal of sadistic Shepard Lambrick.
The movie doesn't offer a lot of 'What would you do in the same situation'? There is little hope or much choice as the game progresses. Still, the script by Steffen Schlachtenhaufen (Primal) is interesting enough in various character developments.
Not likely to make many Top 10 lists by year's end, Would You Rather still offers valued entertainment and a few good self-inflicted wounds along the way.
www.killerreviews.com
The latest such cinematic example is Would You Rather. Starring Brittany Snow (Pitch Perfect), Sasha Grey (my personal hard drive), Robb Wells (Hobo with a Shotgun), and John Heard (Home Alone), Would You Rather gathers a group of strangers for a wealthy aristocrat, played by Jeffrey Combs (Re-Animator) who pits his guests against each other in sadistic games where they have to choose between two options – each of which can either cause pain or death to themselves or another guest.
So guests are put in awkward positions of having to decide whether to electrocute themselves or someone else or whether to whip a guest or stab another. Attempt to leave the game and you will be shot. Take too long to decide on the lesser of the two options and you will be killed. The goal is to become the last person standing and the reward differs on the needs of each individual.
The main character to which the movie focuses around the table is Iris (Snow). She agrees to be part of the unrevealed game in an effort to provide for her ailing brother. She is the first to be tested with an offer to eat portions of a steak in return for $1,000 (being a vegetarian, it was a tough decision). But as the evening draws further, Iris and the others will be forced to make decisions inflicting unspeakable pain towards the other participants.
Stealing the movie is Combs. He commands a presence at the top of the table and his evil is believable in large thanks to his charismatic and demented portrayal of sadistic Shepard Lambrick.
The movie doesn't offer a lot of 'What would you do in the same situation'? There is little hope or much choice as the game progresses. Still, the script by Steffen Schlachtenhaufen (Primal) is interesting enough in various character developments.
Not likely to make many Top 10 lists by year's end, Would You Rather still offers valued entertainment and a few good self-inflicted wounds along the way.
www.killerreviews.com
Great idea !
TinyThoughts22 November 2020
Would you rather has a great idea, bad execution.
Acting is just plain bad, at Sachas part, terribly, even though she has a lot of 'acting' career.
The story starts off well, but then it just becomes awful, it still keeps you interested if it's your kind of movie.
Even though, its good late night entertainment, i liked the ending.
Good for small money production !
Acting is just plain bad, at Sachas part, terribly, even though she has a lot of 'acting' career.
The story starts off well, but then it just becomes awful, it still keeps you interested if it's your kind of movie.
Even though, its good late night entertainment, i liked the ending.
Good for small money production !
Not the worst but seriously unsurprising
Tcarts7624 July 2013
"Would You Rather," is a decent, low budget. thriller about desperate people put in horrible situations for the entertainment of a wealthy sadist.
Brittany Snow is a decent actress, but this definitely wasn't her best effort. The movie plot was OK, and I did appreciate that they didn't just go with the usual copy "Saw" plot that most of these movies use. That being said, the things that happen in this movie are just a bit lacking in creativity. The script was pretty lame, and there was generally a lot more needed to build some suspense and really make it memorable on any real level. Ex pornstar Sasha Grey is in this movie. She looks beautiful, but again the script was just way too lean to see if she could really act (I give her a pass on the bad reviews of "The Girlfriend Experience" because it was a Soderbergh movie, and I hate his movies anyway).
All in all, I give it all a 5. To me Brittany Snow and Jeffrey Combs are good enough actor that could have made it decent with a good script, and a bit better writing. The twist at the end was pretty standard and not surprising at all. It's decent if you have nothing else to watch.
Brittany Snow is a decent actress, but this definitely wasn't her best effort. The movie plot was OK, and I did appreciate that they didn't just go with the usual copy "Saw" plot that most of these movies use. That being said, the things that happen in this movie are just a bit lacking in creativity. The script was pretty lame, and there was generally a lot more needed to build some suspense and really make it memorable on any real level. Ex pornstar Sasha Grey is in this movie. She looks beautiful, but again the script was just way too lean to see if she could really act (I give her a pass on the bad reviews of "The Girlfriend Experience" because it was a Soderbergh movie, and I hate his movies anyway).
All in all, I give it all a 5. To me Brittany Snow and Jeffrey Combs are good enough actor that could have made it decent with a good script, and a bit better writing. The twist at the end was pretty standard and not surprising at all. It's decent if you have nothing else to watch.
Offers nothing new to an overdone theme, but does it well.
horrormoviegrl21 August 2014
And as confusing as that may sound, I stand by it firmly.
Would You Rather's main plot lines have been done time and time again... Helpless protagonist struggles with own morals after being thrust into a lose-lose situation.
Been there. Seen that.
But that being said, Would You Rather is an extremely well made movie in the realm of cinematography, character development, and pacing. No cheap thrills or gore-for-the-sake-of-gore here -- which in itself is always refreshing when it comes to modern horror movies.
There were a few unique twists and turns, but not enough to call it a strikingly original feature.
I would still recommend this as a watch, if only on a day you can't find anything decidedly better and really need to get your horror fix. Not entirely unsatisfying, but not as effective as it would have been if only a bit of originality were at play.
Would You Rather's main plot lines have been done time and time again... Helpless protagonist struggles with own morals after being thrust into a lose-lose situation.
Been there. Seen that.
But that being said, Would You Rather is an extremely well made movie in the realm of cinematography, character development, and pacing. No cheap thrills or gore-for-the-sake-of-gore here -- which in itself is always refreshing when it comes to modern horror movies.
There were a few unique twists and turns, but not enough to call it a strikingly original feature.
I would still recommend this as a watch, if only on a day you can't find anything decidedly better and really need to get your horror fix. Not entirely unsatisfying, but not as effective as it would have been if only a bit of originality were at play.
Not As Terrible As One Might Expect
gavin69423 July 2013
Desperate to help her ailing brother, a young woman (Brittany Snow) unknowingly agrees to compete in a deadly game of "Would You Rather," hosted by a sadistic aristocrat (Jeffrey Combs).
There are two issues I have with this film that I would like to get out of the way from the beginning: first, the complete implausibility of the whole thing. The plot assumes that none of the guests told their friends or families where they were going, and that somehow everyone involved can keep quiet about the events. This seems beyond the realm of possibility, but for the sake of the story, I would let it slide.
Second, I have mixed feelings about the score. While some of it was excellent, other parts seems very repetitive and overpowered the film itself. I might even go so far as to say it deserved a better rating if the music was toned down.
That being said, there are plenty of good things to say about the film. The overall concept is very chilling, and far more disturbing than the average horror film. Some might put this in the "torture porn" subgenre of horror, but I felt like it never sunk to the depths of "Hostel" or the later "Saw" films. If anything, the structure was more like "13" (2010). These are events that could happen (again, if we ignore the overall implausibility) rather than a man who stalks us in our dreams.
The doctor subplot was excellent, and well-scripted. It was possibly the best part. Jeffrey Combs was nice to see, actually getting more than a cameo. Stealing the show, though, was Sasha Grey, an actress who made her name in the adult film business (the one in a million who an successfully make the transition). Her character (Amy) is the wild card that brings the situation towards complete chaos, and that is where the game gets challenging.
No masterpiece by any means, but with the right editing, this could have been a slightly stronger film. Either way, it was still better than half of the movies I see...
There are two issues I have with this film that I would like to get out of the way from the beginning: first, the complete implausibility of the whole thing. The plot assumes that none of the guests told their friends or families where they were going, and that somehow everyone involved can keep quiet about the events. This seems beyond the realm of possibility, but for the sake of the story, I would let it slide.
Second, I have mixed feelings about the score. While some of it was excellent, other parts seems very repetitive and overpowered the film itself. I might even go so far as to say it deserved a better rating if the music was toned down.
That being said, there are plenty of good things to say about the film. The overall concept is very chilling, and far more disturbing than the average horror film. Some might put this in the "torture porn" subgenre of horror, but I felt like it never sunk to the depths of "Hostel" or the later "Saw" films. If anything, the structure was more like "13" (2010). These are events that could happen (again, if we ignore the overall implausibility) rather than a man who stalks us in our dreams.
The doctor subplot was excellent, and well-scripted. It was possibly the best part. Jeffrey Combs was nice to see, actually getting more than a cameo. Stealing the show, though, was Sasha Grey, an actress who made her name in the adult film business (the one in a million who an successfully make the transition). Her character (Amy) is the wild card that brings the situation towards complete chaos, and that is where the game gets challenging.
No masterpiece by any means, but with the right editing, this could have been a slightly stronger film. Either way, it was still better than half of the movies I see...
A sickening experience
UniqueParticle1 November 2020
Demented underrated horror movie about a group of people play a game of Would You Rather to try to win money. I've only seen once before and even then it disturbed me; very effective treat I'd say! Delectable twisted game that is shocking and fairly entertaining!
The most dangerous game
mdnobles1922 February 2013
Desperate to help her ailing brother, a young woman unknowingly agrees to compete in a deadly game of "Would You Rather," hosted by a sadistic aristocrat.
Would You Rather is a leading contender of the most angst and depressing filled horror film of 2013. The film is like a different variation of a Saw film but meatier, more suspenseful and old-fashioned with not much bloodshed. It's also like a deadlier version of MTV's Silent Library. The film raises a lot of questions on human nature and how far would you go for a huge chunk of cash or help a gravely ill loved one, which leads to shocking results. Are you ready to witness the most dangerous game? The performances were gripping and darkly humorous. Brittany Snow gives her most emotionally challenging performance to date, she should definitely do more horror movies, and she was great! Brittany plays Iris, a young woman who recently lost both of her parents and is left caring for her ailing brother Raleigh. Iris soon meets with his doctor to see what she can do to help with the medical cost, the doctor then introduces her to a wealthy aristocrat, Shepard Lambrick who wants to help her with her struggles. Iris agrees to his offer and meets him at his mansion for a business dinner to make a deal, but she is unaware though that it's a deathtrap that leads to the sinister game of Would You Rather. Jeffrey Combs was wickedly entertaining as the sadistic, cruel and unusual host Shepard Lambrick, but at the same time you wanted to punch him in the face. The supporting players were pretty solid as well that includes Enver Gjokaj, Sasha Grey, John Heard and Robin Tayler who plays Julian, the creepy and sociopath son of Shepard Lambrick. They were all pretty effective in their small roles.
Director, David Guy Levy who's only done one full-length film before this one, gets the job done with rigorous effect. The director grabs you and throws you into this demented game of survival of the fittest and accomplishes more when it come to this type of film than directors who have been doing this for years. He creates a dread filled and suffocating atmosphere that reminds me of Hostel but just not all up in your face about it. The suspense was unrelenting and the finale was harsh and a punch in the gut, it was frustrating and a case of the blues that will linger with you long after it's over. Writer, Steffen Schlachtenhaufen also impressed me as this is also his second effort and creates a confronting script, with wicked, dark humor thrown in for good measure. Steffen seemed inspired and influenced by horror movies of the past as well as present and adds his own touch to it, even though it's not all too original. I'm interested to see their next effort. I also love the poster; it's simple, retro and accurate.
Overall, Would You Rather is a game of greed and survival at its most twisted. The performances were great, the suspense was there, the story gripping, the kills brutal but not over the top. The characters though had so many chances to fight back against their captors, it became frustrating and draining but the film as a whole mostly accomplished what it set out to do. It will crawl under your skin and stay there for days and for a horror movie that's gold. Recommended! 7 out of 10
Would You Rather is a leading contender of the most angst and depressing filled horror film of 2013. The film is like a different variation of a Saw film but meatier, more suspenseful and old-fashioned with not much bloodshed. It's also like a deadlier version of MTV's Silent Library. The film raises a lot of questions on human nature and how far would you go for a huge chunk of cash or help a gravely ill loved one, which leads to shocking results. Are you ready to witness the most dangerous game? The performances were gripping and darkly humorous. Brittany Snow gives her most emotionally challenging performance to date, she should definitely do more horror movies, and she was great! Brittany plays Iris, a young woman who recently lost both of her parents and is left caring for her ailing brother Raleigh. Iris soon meets with his doctor to see what she can do to help with the medical cost, the doctor then introduces her to a wealthy aristocrat, Shepard Lambrick who wants to help her with her struggles. Iris agrees to his offer and meets him at his mansion for a business dinner to make a deal, but she is unaware though that it's a deathtrap that leads to the sinister game of Would You Rather. Jeffrey Combs was wickedly entertaining as the sadistic, cruel and unusual host Shepard Lambrick, but at the same time you wanted to punch him in the face. The supporting players were pretty solid as well that includes Enver Gjokaj, Sasha Grey, John Heard and Robin Tayler who plays Julian, the creepy and sociopath son of Shepard Lambrick. They were all pretty effective in their small roles.
Director, David Guy Levy who's only done one full-length film before this one, gets the job done with rigorous effect. The director grabs you and throws you into this demented game of survival of the fittest and accomplishes more when it come to this type of film than directors who have been doing this for years. He creates a dread filled and suffocating atmosphere that reminds me of Hostel but just not all up in your face about it. The suspense was unrelenting and the finale was harsh and a punch in the gut, it was frustrating and a case of the blues that will linger with you long after it's over. Writer, Steffen Schlachtenhaufen also impressed me as this is also his second effort and creates a confronting script, with wicked, dark humor thrown in for good measure. Steffen seemed inspired and influenced by horror movies of the past as well as present and adds his own touch to it, even though it's not all too original. I'm interested to see their next effort. I also love the poster; it's simple, retro and accurate.
Overall, Would You Rather is a game of greed and survival at its most twisted. The performances were great, the suspense was there, the story gripping, the kills brutal but not over the top. The characters though had so many chances to fight back against their captors, it became frustrating and draining but the film as a whole mostly accomplished what it set out to do. It will crawl under your skin and stay there for days and for a horror movie that's gold. Recommended! 7 out of 10
good idea. not as good execution..
Philipkenyon199830 December 2013
When I started this movie I wasn't expecting too much. I thought I was going to get a badly acted run of the mill horror. But as the movie progressed I started to find myself getting invested in the plot and the main character. However, my new found hope for the movie was tarnished when it came to the torture itself. There is so much more that could have been done with character development and plot but it just seemed like it couldn't be bothered. It turned into a movie where you could predict every move up until the end.
To me it kind of felt like hostel where if more time and effort had been taken it could have been really good and got the audience invested but sadly it was not the case.
When watching a film like this I kind of hope to see the torture at hand but this movie lacked in this aspect. Advertising a movie as horror and torture and not providing it is disappointing.
This isn't a terrible movie by any means but it isn't exactly good. If you want a sort of popcorn flick to watch with some friends by all means give it a go but this isn't a movie that stood out to me at all.
To me it kind of felt like hostel where if more time and effort had been taken it could have been really good and got the audience invested but sadly it was not the case.
When watching a film like this I kind of hope to see the torture at hand but this movie lacked in this aspect. Advertising a movie as horror and torture and not providing it is disappointing.
This isn't a terrible movie by any means but it isn't exactly good. If you want a sort of popcorn flick to watch with some friends by all means give it a go but this isn't a movie that stood out to me at all.
A great concept, realised to a decent standard.
Sleepin_Dragon7 February 2018
Would you rather falls very much into the genre of torture thriller. A genre that seems strong for volume, and lacking when it comes to quality. Would you rather is interesting in terms of concept, makes me think of the difference in healthcare between the USA and the UK, it seems hard for us Brits to contemplate someone in Poverty having no access to health care. It's that system that gives the film its story, how far would a girl go to change her brother's life.
It starts off fairly mild, then gets more and more grim, without being visually gratuitous, that I think benefits the viewer, leaving the imagination do its work. You feel the enjoyment the twisted benefactor Shepard Lambrick gets from each 'game,' Jeffrey Combs is undoubtedly the standout in the film, but Robin Lord Taylor and Brittany Snow also stand out.
I wouldn't say it's ultimately satisfying, but it's still a good watch.
It starts off fairly mild, then gets more and more grim, without being visually gratuitous, that I think benefits the viewer, leaving the imagination do its work. You feel the enjoyment the twisted benefactor Shepard Lambrick gets from each 'game,' Jeffrey Combs is undoubtedly the standout in the film, but Robin Lord Taylor and Brittany Snow also stand out.
I wouldn't say it's ultimately satisfying, but it's still a good watch.
A Real Gem for the Genre
Michael_Elliott10 May 2014
Would You Rather (2012)
*** 1/2 (out of 4)
Extremely good horror/thriller about a woman (Brittany Snow) and eight others needing financial help out of their problems and agreeing to take part in a "game." This game turns out to be the title where the sadistic host (Jeffrey Combs) makes them select whether to hurt themselves or others playing the game. If you've seen the Vincent Price film HOUSE ON HAUNTED HILL, about a contest held inside a haunted house where the survivor wins, and if you mix it with SAW then you pretty much end up with this movie. In fact, comparing it to SAW might not be fair because while this film is very intense, you'd be surprised that most of the violence takes place out of view and the images you build up in your head is what makes this so effective. Don't get me wrong, there's certainly some blood but the point of the movie isn't torture but instead to ask yourself what you'd do in this situation. There's so much that works about this film but director David Guy Levy does a fantastic job at building up the atmosphere as well as the tension that goes behind each of the games. There are times where you'll be holding your breathe waiting for something to happen only to have the chair pulled out from under you. Another thing that makes this film work so well is that the performances are excellent. This includes the eight players, the sadistic host and his helpers. I really loved the performance of Combs here because that calm, cool and collective nature is just so chilling and you can't help but feel how evil this guy is. Snow also makes for a believable tough girl who you can believe throughout the film. John Heard, Sasha Gray and June Squibb are also extremely good in their parts but you won't be let down by the entire cast. As a horror fan, it's really a shame so many awful movies get wide releases each year while something like this sees a few select theaters. This film certainly deserves to be discovered because it's a real gem.
*** 1/2 (out of 4)
Extremely good horror/thriller about a woman (Brittany Snow) and eight others needing financial help out of their problems and agreeing to take part in a "game." This game turns out to be the title where the sadistic host (Jeffrey Combs) makes them select whether to hurt themselves or others playing the game. If you've seen the Vincent Price film HOUSE ON HAUNTED HILL, about a contest held inside a haunted house where the survivor wins, and if you mix it with SAW then you pretty much end up with this movie. In fact, comparing it to SAW might not be fair because while this film is very intense, you'd be surprised that most of the violence takes place out of view and the images you build up in your head is what makes this so effective. Don't get me wrong, there's certainly some blood but the point of the movie isn't torture but instead to ask yourself what you'd do in this situation. There's so much that works about this film but director David Guy Levy does a fantastic job at building up the atmosphere as well as the tension that goes behind each of the games. There are times where you'll be holding your breathe waiting for something to happen only to have the chair pulled out from under you. Another thing that makes this film work so well is that the performances are excellent. This includes the eight players, the sadistic host and his helpers. I really loved the performance of Combs here because that calm, cool and collective nature is just so chilling and you can't help but feel how evil this guy is. Snow also makes for a believable tough girl who you can believe throughout the film. John Heard, Sasha Gray and June Squibb are also extremely good in their parts but you won't be let down by the entire cast. As a horror fan, it's really a shame so many awful movies get wide releases each year while something like this sees a few select theaters. This film certainly deserves to be discovered because it's a real gem.
Good for what it is
mrluxinatux25 March 2024
This is is the problem with these kinds of movies; you can only make it as good as you can. What I mean is, a doctor inviting patients over to his 20 million dollar mansion for a chance to win money, only to have it be a trap and a torture-fest, can only be so good, right?
Yeah, because it would pretty much never happen. Give the script to Martin Scorsese and even he will only be able to do so much. The plot to this movie is paper thin, unquestionably. These kinds of horror movies are such an unreasonable stretch that it makes you roll you eyes. Even paranormal horror movies are usually more lenient to the viewers eyes because they, the viewer, can be like, "well, maybe all this stuff is possible."
But for what this movie is, it's pretty entertaining. Even though you don't know practically anything about the characters, the "would you rather" scenes are pretty damn intense. And throughout the game you find yourself putting your feet in their shoes. Even though it's a cheesy movie, it kept me entertained and curious. I don't usually go for these types of films but I won't lie when I say that I wasn't bored watching the movie, and that I also thought it had a strong atmosphere to it. 6/10.
Yeah, because it would pretty much never happen. Give the script to Martin Scorsese and even he will only be able to do so much. The plot to this movie is paper thin, unquestionably. These kinds of horror movies are such an unreasonable stretch that it makes you roll you eyes. Even paranormal horror movies are usually more lenient to the viewers eyes because they, the viewer, can be like, "well, maybe all this stuff is possible."
But for what this movie is, it's pretty entertaining. Even though you don't know practically anything about the characters, the "would you rather" scenes are pretty damn intense. And throughout the game you find yourself putting your feet in their shoes. Even though it's a cheesy movie, it kept me entertained and curious. I don't usually go for these types of films but I won't lie when I say that I wasn't bored watching the movie, and that I also thought it had a strong atmosphere to it. 6/10.
Loved this low budget horror movie with suspense
Sfernald9 February 2013
So rare to see a low budget horror movie this successful. If you like horror that makes you think you should enjoy this. It is suspenseful from the outset and has lots of twists and turns to keep you jumping. I like the way they created a real world in that crazy house with all the dynamics of family and servants. Extremely creepy.
The girl was a good little actress. Combs was suitably crazy as the administrator of the game. He definitely made the movie. I was surprised with some of the actors they got to fill out the game. I think I recognized each one, including the ex porn star and the drunk John Heard.
The girl was a good little actress. Combs was suitably crazy as the administrator of the game. He definitely made the movie. I was surprised with some of the actors they got to fill out the game. I think I recognized each one, including the ex porn star and the drunk John Heard.
Pretty average but the end got me.
Crabtreetaylor16 June 2021
Cool Premise, but could have done more.
clockwerk-7593710 January 2022
In response to the ^above^ review "Disturbing Garbage"--
jswindter0125 September 2013
While its obviously your prerogative to watch 30mins of a film, but that it in no way whatsoever qualifies as sufficient in terms of giving any meaningful or even relevant review, opinion, or commentary about said film.
This film by no means was an excellent, stand out horror movie, but I must correct the extreme misinformation that the above review states. This movie is not torture pornography. Have you seen any of the movies that brought about the term "torture porn"?.. Because if you have seen them(rather than mere minutes of a film and then proceed to offer a review and critique) you would have a very real understanding and actual knowledge of what torture porn is and most importantly(re: the subject at hand) you would realize that this movie doesn't even begin to qualify for that tough to digest category..
Again, my intent is not to give a raving review of this mediocre film, but rather to correct extreme misinformation stated in the above review. A review with zero basis due to the fact that the movie was not even viewed by the individual..
This film by no means was an excellent, stand out horror movie, but I must correct the extreme misinformation that the above review states. This movie is not torture pornography. Have you seen any of the movies that brought about the term "torture porn"?.. Because if you have seen them(rather than mere minutes of a film and then proceed to offer a review and critique) you would have a very real understanding and actual knowledge of what torture porn is and most importantly(re: the subject at hand) you would realize that this movie doesn't even begin to qualify for that tough to digest category..
Again, my intent is not to give a raving review of this mediocre film, but rather to correct extreme misinformation stated in the above review. A review with zero basis due to the fact that the movie was not even viewed by the individual..
need some improvement but great fun
raymondguang16 August 2013
this movie is an interesting one. i did enjoy certain aspect of the movie. the concept was interesting (but not new), each character needed more time to develop their own stories. there is potential room of improvement for some of the supporting characters. there is suspension, there are twists and turns. but for me, most of them are kind of predictable. for a small budget movie, i don't think it really matters that much. this movie has great watchable value. for a horror/thriller fan like me. i did enjoyed the movie to a certain extent. it feels like the movie was a bit rushed during production. the ending was interesting (but somehow predictable). i would recommend this movie.
Great horror/thriller and outstanding performances
Drive_Angry_997 February 2013
I have just watched this at a screening hosted by Fangoria at IFC in New York. Absolutely loved it. 8 people that for a reason or another all need help, they are gathered in a house for a 'game'. Who wins will get all his problems solved, but there are no free lunches in life...
I was in tension from the moment the game starts until the ending. What I loved about the movie was its visceral and raw simplicity. No need for special effects or to show anything to keep the audience on the edge of their seat.
Jeffrey Combs is great, as well as all the other actors. The soundtrack is almost basic, but so effective in creating an atmosphere of a place of pure evil that is eternal in time.
I recommend this without a doubt... Agatha Christie would be so proud.
I was in tension from the moment the game starts until the ending. What I loved about the movie was its visceral and raw simplicity. No need for special effects or to show anything to keep the audience on the edge of their seat.
Jeffrey Combs is great, as well as all the other actors. The soundtrack is almost basic, but so effective in creating an atmosphere of a place of pure evil that is eternal in time.
I recommend this without a doubt... Agatha Christie would be so proud.
Would you rather read the review or skip!
Matin_Shwany18 September 2019
Would you rather watch this or skip it, the title describes the movie, the movie was intense it had moments that makes you feel it whats happening there, the plot was good i like this type of movies, at first the story was going good well paced, after getting into it you want to see more of whats going to happen, it showed us what humans can do for money, the paper that controls the world, but i dont think every thing is money, but thats the movie idea, the characters were okay actors they were good but they didnt caught my heart, well at first i guessed for the ending of the movie but it didnt go the way i wanted it to be, the ending kinda ruined it, it wasnt ruined but i didnt like the ending, they should made it better in every ways, it lacked at the ending, well if you wanna feel your body and some thriller give it a chance its worth, 7/10⭐
Feeling a bit sadist, are we?
Coventry15 November 2013
I simply can't give a better or more accurate one-sentence plot description than this: Ten little Indians playing Saw at the House on Haunted Hill! By that I obviously mean it's a very derivative and unoriginal film, but that doesn't necessarily have to be a blocker to watch it. "Would you rather" is a very rudimental but tense and ultimately sadistic thriller that spends little (too little?) time on character drawings or logic and aims straight for shocks and disgust. We're introduced to Iris, a brave young girl who single-handedly takes care of her severely ill brother and desperately needs a large sum of money in order to move him up the organ donor list. Via their doctor, Iris meets the eccentric Shepard Lambrick who invites her to a secluded party at his mansion where she will supposedly be offered the chance to receive the required money if she participates in a game. Iris meets 7 other "players", people of which we remain largely unaware of their backgrounds but undoubtedly in financial troubles as well, and the grim nature of Lambrick's intentions quickly become clear at the dinner table already. The guests are unsubtly forced to participate in a game of 'would you rather', but both the offered options have excruciatingly painful consequences for either the player him/herself or anyone else at the table. I don't really believe these kind of torture-porn movies reflect a depressing study of human behavior because, let's be honest, the chance of ending up in situations like these are fairly inexistent. It's merely sardonic entertainment that doesn't require a lot of brain activity, no more and no less. The violence and death traps are a lot less sophisticated than in "Saw" or any other famous torture-porn flicks, but definitely brutal and revolting. The script features a few modest surprises and unexpected twists, so the least you can say is that "Would you rather" is never boring. There are some remarkably pleasing casting choices as well, including former porn actress Sasha Grey as the bitchy girl and underrated class-actor John Heard as a skeptical guest. But the absolute show stealer is Jeffrey Combs in what is probably his most evil role since
well
the almighty "Re-Animator". Combs is a true icon of the horror genre, but in the last 10-15 years he mainly just appears in supportive roles or cameos. In "Would you rather" he finally has the chance to depict a wonderfully despicable and vile bastard again.
Among the worst films I've ever seen.
mprestonhall4 January 2014
Caught this movie on TV and I can't remember a movie I enjoyed less.
It's so bad, it defies placement in any genre. It's hard to call it a horror movie when it lacks any suspense or call it torture porn when it lacks gore. Other things lacking from this film include plot, character development, and competent acting and scriptwriting.
The reviews calling this a character study are way off the mark. Caring about a character's moral choices requires characters with moral agency and an audience that's invested in the story enough to care about the choices made by the characters. These characters are nothing more than objects to be used in a sadistic fantasy.
If you're thinking about watching this movie, don't. There's a long list of things you'd rather do.
It's so bad, it defies placement in any genre. It's hard to call it a horror movie when it lacks any suspense or call it torture porn when it lacks gore. Other things lacking from this film include plot, character development, and competent acting and scriptwriting.
The reviews calling this a character study are way off the mark. Caring about a character's moral choices requires characters with moral agency and an audience that's invested in the story enough to care about the choices made by the characters. These characters are nothing more than objects to be used in a sadistic fantasy.
If you're thinking about watching this movie, don't. There's a long list of things you'd rather do.
The execution could have been better
Thrishoolin28 February 2021
This movie had a good premise. People made to play a deadly game by some rich guy. Torture ensues.
This idea must have looked good on paper. But on screen, the execution falls flat in several places. At the same time, it stand out as very good in some other places too.
What we get due to this is a so, so movie which is good in places and just plain boring in other places.
Watch this if you want to pass some time casually. I was not able to get too involved with the movie. It bored me in places.
This idea must have looked good on paper. But on screen, the execution falls flat in several places. At the same time, it stand out as very good in some other places too.
What we get due to this is a so, so movie which is good in places and just plain boring in other places.
Watch this if you want to pass some time casually. I was not able to get too involved with the movie. It bored me in places.
Decent atmosphere, unfulfilling plot.
honest_reviews1721 April 2021
This movie explores one night at a dinner party with a bunch of people who each have a need. Needless to say, not many will survive the encounter. Along the way, a few interesting temptations are made, but they tend to spend too long on each "dare" of sorts, meaning there isn't much variety. The gore level is non-existent, and without spoiling the ending, let's just say it's a weak excuse for a plot twist.
Watch for the performances, some of which are decent. But otherwise, you won't be missing much by passing on this one.
Watch for the performances, some of which are decent. But otherwise, you won't be missing much by passing on this one.
Good but overused concept poorly executed
janniheikkinen4 July 2020
There is nothing wrong with the concept itself, but the idea is poorly executed. There is little to nothing building up or explanation to why the bad guys are doing this crazy stuff. The bad guys are bad "beacuse we say so".. would not waste my time, choose another movie. Although we got out a few laughs here and there for a few inconsistencies and clichés.
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