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Saturday, August 7, 2010

Movie Review: Eraserhead (1976)

Genre: Horror
Year: 1976
Rated: Unrated
My Opinion: heart
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One of the greatest horror movies ever made (in my opinion at least). It doesn't try to scare you with cheap jumps and steamy shower scenes, instead it goes for the 'creep' factor. In other words, it will make you squirm.

The basic synopsis: Henry, a printer on vacation, is forced into marriage after his girlfriend gives birth to a deformed infant. Although the story seems simplistic, what makes this movie really worth watching is the visuals and the soundtrack.

Visuals: The dark dystopian atmosphere and setting really set the tone for the movie. Its never explained as to how or why the world is the way it is, or even if this world truly exists (in other words, is this Henry's interpretation of the world?). The portrayal of the characters are often unsettling and disturbing, as well as the manifestations of madness that plague Henry's life.

Soundtrack: There is no real 'music' in Eraserhead (save for one song), the score is generally 'industrial noise' which seems to fall into an eerie rhythm, giving you chills and goosebumps.

There are two versions of Eraserhead: the original cut and the re-release titled 'Eraserhead 2000'. The later version is 20 minutes longer. I personally have only seen the original.

Whichever version you choose, I highly recommend this if you are looking for a 'different' kind of horror movie. But be warned, this film will disturb sensitive viewers.

Have you seen Eraserhead? Which version do you think is better? Leave a comment below!


 

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