Raw - Julia Ducourau
Horror/Drama - R - 2017
Raw is an absolutely jarring viewing experience that will leave you thinking about it long after it ends. Personally, I don’t scare easily from movies. I’m always in search of a film that will truly frighten me -- and this one hits on all levels. Raw is one of the few movies that I really enjoyed but definitely wouldn’t recommend to everyone (if you tend to be squeamish or grossed out easily, I would avoid this film). That said, from the opening scene to the closing dialogue, my interest was piqued. The critically-acclaimed French horror/drama is available on Netflix with English subtitles.
Raw is a coming of age tale, unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. When a lifelong vegetarian, Justine, arrives at veterinary school – she is quickly subjected to all sorts of lurid hazing rituals. One such ritual requires her to taste raw meat for the first time. She reluctantly does, thus beginning her steady descent into mayhem. Once she acquires a taste for it, she will stop at nothing to get her fill.
Despite the shocking elements throughout the film; I found it to be filled with many great themes, which all contribute to why I have rated it so highly. It is bursting with intelligent social commentary, for one. It also explores the ideas of discovering who you are, what you want, and how to go after it (in a metaphorical way, of course). Thirdly, it displays the complicated relationship between sisters in a unique way. Complete with wonderful acting and direction – Raw is easily one of my favorite horror movies to date.
