This is a film which combines many genres (revenge movie, dark comedy, thriller, crime drama) in a very successful way. It attacks unapologetically rape culture, and shows us how is society biased against women, favouring "good guys" over "bad girls". It might be harsh and bittersweet, but that's how true life is, and as I see it, one of the missions cinema has is to portray life as it is, with its ups and downs, exposing societal pathogenies and problems but showing the bright side of life, as well, and I think this movie succeeds in it, for the most part, at least. The script is truly original (undoubtedly a well-deserved academy award for Best Original Screenplay for the director Emerald Fennell), with many twists and turns, revenge-fueled -seemingly thoughtless- acts, and its grimly realistic, but ultimately fulfilling ending, is really true to life, and the fact that it doesn't show on-screen the rape, which is at the heart of the film, only adds to its impact and charm. The scene with the head of the protagonist centered just "in" the angles of a square frame is impressive, and the combination of old-fashioned aesthetic with contemporary elements is nothing less than effective, and transfuses a timeless breeze. The technique of tracking shot* is well-used when needed, and although the separation of the picture to parts seems a bit outdated sometimes, it doesn't detract a lot from this work. Above all stands the explosive and powerful, yet absolutely convincing performance of Carey Mulligan. I believe that this movie in the end is an audaciously raised "bird" to the stereotypes, the perceptions of the society about some matters, and, also, s**t-shaming victims of sexual assault are subjected to. This one is recommended not only to feminists, but to the ones who would like to get a new perspective on gender issues and to some people who think they know all about it, but some others want to change their minds. I can't wait for Fennell's new feature, "Saltburn"!
*Tracking shot is a cinematic technique in which the camera operator follows the actor/actress with the camera in his/her hands.
*Tracking shot is a cinematic technique in which the camera operator follows the actor/actress with the camera in his/her hands.
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