Reviews

There are all kinds of movies out there. Great movies, bad movies, mediocre movies, etc. I've seen so many different kinds of films in my time that few are capable of evoking a strong reaction out of me. Fight for Your Life is simply unlike any movie experience I can remember having.

Let me say that this is not a film for everyone. It is hardly what I would call an enjoyable experience, but it is an important experience nonetheless. While the film features some of the most heinously racist dialog of any movie I've ever seen, there is never a moment in the film that seems self-indulgent for white people. Sexual violence at the hands of the villains is portrayed in typically shocking form as well.

As if that weren't enough, it also has a very touching bond between two young boys, only to leave you completely broken hearted at their fate.

I sat there at the theater, riveted and nearly sick to my stomach throughout the film, and left completely stunned. I knew I had seen an important film. This is not just another grind house exploitation feature. This is something else entirely.

This film is definitely worth seeing. The film is made up of six sketches by six directors, each revolving around the theme of - you guessed it - the world's oldest profession: prostitution. It begins with a ridiculous segment that explains the origins of cosmetics as a primitive stone age invention.

The acting throughout is not good but in a very entertaining way, that is, until Raquel Welch is on screen. She is better than ever and I almost wished her segment would not end, not knowing what was to unfold later in the film.

After a few more lightly entertaining segments, the film takes a considerably different tone. In fact, it's a sonic jolt that filled me with tension and excitement. I first saw this movie on Quentin Tarantino's 35mm print, and had no prior knowledge of it's existence. So, naturally, I was surprised to see Godard's name appear at the beginning of the last segment, entitled Anticipation. Among these mostly light-hearted and ridiculous comedy segments was one of the coolest things I've ever seen. At first, I thought the mention of Godard's name was a joke. The story is set in the future and is meant to depict prostitution in the years to come. It is, characteristic of Godard, unlike anything you would expect. I won't give away any details, for the experience is best seen fresh, and makes this movie worth seeing for Godard's segment alone. Come for Raquel, and stay for Godard.