Climax (2018)
What if Gaspar Noe made Suspirira?
Reviewing a film like this in some ways feel meaningless. It is more a sensory experience than a film that can be analysed. It is also a type of film many will flunk as weird arthouse nonsense and it is kinda hard to disagree. But maybe it will give you something regardless.
I can best describe it is a psychological horror dance movie. I am easily impressed and captivated by long takes, and the opening dance scene was hypnotizing. I don’t consider myself a person that has the slightest interest in dancing, but if it is done like this - then perhaps.
The second half of the movie is practically one long 40 minute take. A complete LSD trip “objectively” observed by the camera. With some funky artistic choices for the camerawork. We are not inside people’s head but merely watch the consequences of their hallucinations. It is maddening, horrible, amusing and messed up in several different ways. Long takes are mesmerizing not simply because they are difficult to pull off, but mostly because of how it makes the viewing super intense. It demands a different kind of focus with no pauses and no escapes from the madness.
Rating: 4