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JannaCherry
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Reviews
Magic Magic (2013)
Misunderstood gem about mental illness
I'm glad I went into this film without knowing anything about it.
It seems Magic Magic has been badly marketed as a horror/thriller and therefore it's easy to see why audiences are disappointed. However, what I found it to be was an atmospheric and gripping observation of the central character's fall into mental illness.
Juno Temple's performance as she loses herself in a sea of exhaustion, isolation and fear is absolutely first class. Having known people suffering from severe personality disorders, I could recognise a lot of the characteristics that slowly revealed themselves. Again, brought to screen perfectly by Temple but also a testament to Sebastian Silva's talent as writer/director.
It does begin to unravel slightly at the end as it seeks to reach a dramatic climax (that wasn't needed, in my opinion). However, despite a jarring change in tone, the final 10 minutes offered a necessary critique on the attitudes towards people suffering with mental illness. Notably, the importance of modern medical research and of family and friend's support, compassion and knowledge of the disease.
A slow-burning exploration into the horror of madness that slightly loses it's way towards the end. 7/10
Entrance (2012)
Tense, disconcerting and brilliant.
I am so glad that I was not put off by the overall rating on IMDb for this film and instead chose to go by a positive user review.
It is unfair that this film doesn't have more recognition, especially in the horror genre. The composition is masterful. Not one shot goes to waste. It creates an intimacy and an unbearable tension. I was also surprised by its refreshing understanding of the subtlety of fear. This is in no way 'boring'. It is quietly upsetting with terror seeping into the everyday; leading to a cold and matter-of- fact climax.
Also worth a second viewing, just to appreciate the forethought in every scene.