Wednesday, April 18, 2007

Go See Grindhouse!


I’ve never been a fan of zombie movies and too-realistic stalker thrillers…until now. Since I heard about Grindhouse, Tarantino’s latest project with another director, I knew I wanted to see it. I love Tarantino’s approach to film and the social-political satire he incorporates. I knew only two things before I purchased my ticket: Quentin Tarantino was involved and the film was a double feature.

With leftover nachos and bottled water stuffed in my oversized purse (guys, there are benefits to ladies’ large purses), I sat in the middle of the row. My friend informed me the first film was a zombie film. I had no idea what to expect because I normally don’t watch scary movies. The next three and a half hours of my life were amazing.

The first part, titled “Planet Terror,” was full of gore. Human flesh was being ripped off bodies, disgusting growths were being popped like blisters, and hyperbolized characters filled the plot line. It was marvelous! The local barbecue restaurant was called “The Bone Shack” and was managed by the town sheriff’s brother. The unhappily married doctor couple was hysterically funny. The babysitter twins were outrageous. But, my favorite part of all was Rose McGowan’s deadly zombie blasting leg-gun. I didn’t care how she managed to shoot a firearm attached to her recently amputated leg from a laying position. These were minor details that, under such stressful and suspenseful conditions, were realized much later.

Between the two films is a ten minute intermission. DO NOT LEAVE THE THEATRE DURING THE INTERMISSION! It might be the funniest part of the movie. It is full of fake movie trailers that will make you laugh obnoxiously loud to the point of embarrassment, followed by an insane case of the giggles. All I have to say is, prepare to be stuffed.

The second film, “Death Proof,” is about serial killer—his weapon, a badass car. I have to admit I couldn’t help but cover my eyes in parts of this movie. Stalkers and car chases are a bit too realistic. The film has long girl-talk sessions. The chit-chat got old, but was obviously making fun of female socialization. The stunts in this movie were mind-blowing. From what I understand, one of the actresses was Uma Thurman’s stunt double in Tarantino’s Kill Bills. The stunts and chases will make your hands sweat and your heart race. The final frame, not the final scene—I can specify the frame—is worth the anticipation and wait.

Overall, the two films ooze with artistic vision. They are satires of old-school thriller movies with amazing computer graphics. I do not recommend this film for anyone with a weak stomach. In the beginning half hour, a kid ran out of the theatre. But, if you can stomach over-the-top gore and high suspense, all while being able to appreciate the unorthodox with a sense of humor, you will love this film. I’ll even go with you and see it again.



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