The Strangers (2008)

The Strangers (2008)

Director: Bryan Bertino
Writer: Bryan Bertino

Actors: Scott Speedman, Liv Tyler

Why I wanted to see it:
- Friends recommendation
- Horror. I love it.

Why you should see it?
- Super use of sound scares
- Surprising lack of cheese for a straight up slasher flick

Why you might not want to see it?
- It is a straight up slasher flick
- If you think pointless violence should have a point

Is it in my collection: No

What’s it About:
Theme wise, people are scary, answering the door at 4 in the morning is probably not a good idea.
In regards to plot, couple (Liv and Scott) dealing with couple things are chased around by people with various sharp instruments.

My Opinion:
It is what it is and that is a decently entertaining slasher movie, not great, but not bad either. It is clear about what it is trying to achieve and it gets there. Although you do start to desensitize to the steady pace and constant tension, it was acted well, directed well (especially for a debut) and had a sufficiently creepy feel. The dialogue was...well it was almost non existent which is not only a neat trick but effectively allowed Bertino to avoid the use of cheesy one liners that for whatever reason seem so tempting to use in these films. The score was by far the best part, it gave you a few good jumps, played a major role in keeping your heart rate up and complimented the goings on. You won't spend a great deal time thinking about this film after the credits roll but you'll probably enjoy it while it's happening.

I Give It: * * *

* I can’t believe this movie was released. Not worth the $5 it will cost you to rent.
** Has at least one good moment. Minimally enjoyment.

*** Headed in the right direction. A good time, at least worth renting.
**** So good! Totally enjoyable, few complaints.
***** Utterly flawless work of genius.