You absolutely NEED to see the original version. It's on AMC+ and has way more weight than the American version. Once I saw the Danish version, I knew the American version wouldn't have the heart to go there like the original did.
Eh, the Danish version is fine. The ending really has all the juice of that movie, and even it strain credulity. I actually prefer the American Version. It becomes slightly more conventional, but it has a nastiness and a rich sense of a type of British culture that really makes it it's own thing!
I saw the Danish version first a year or two ago and ADORED it, although it is extremely bleak. I went in to this one expecting to dislike it, but I found the complete change of the third act (not just outcome, but the entire plot) really fascinating and I think it made me like this version more than I would have if I hadn’t seen the original at all. I still definitely prefer the original, but I’d be very curious to hear the opinion of someone watching them in the other order.
@@jamestaylor2333 “heart to go there” meaning very danish. Obviously from an American viewpoint, the mains aren’t just going to “roll over and take it”
Watched the Danish version, it was terrible lmao. Any normal family would have left 35 minutes into the stay. Hiring a babysitter I don't know? Instant "let's go honey." And don't give me the Danish culture crap either, it's way too heavy-handed here.
The orginal is much more political in essence, it draws, explores and relies on the cultural, traditional and historical differences and conflicts between Dutch and Denmark "mentality" , which adds crucial layer to the characters and the whole plot and the story, and particularly the 3th act. The remake disregards this in it's entirety, or at least can't capture it with British/American counterparts (not even close), hence this whole aspect is rather crude in the remake. I strongly recommend watching the original first.
The classic final act cliff fall. Companies like Universal, 20th century, and Warner Brothers are notorious for the classic Bait and Switch. They give us good suspense and intrigue for majority of the movie, then the final act turns into popcorn cheese.
4:00 When I think of James McAvoy I immediately think hyper-masculine type. He’s been ripped for many years and is absolutely wild, animalistic even in everything I’ve seen him in past years, like Atomic Blonde, Glass and this one. But I’ve never seen him as romantic lead, so maybe that’s why we have associations so different.
Thank you for being so honest !! With so many review channels I have the impression I know exactly what they are going to say from the thumbnail, and it’s not that individualistic, so thank you !! X I’m deciding which movie to watch tonight at the cinema based on your reviews
so you didn't like the 3rd act, you know why you didn't like the 3rd act? because that was the only thing they changed in this remake! 3rd act in the original is so much darker
Sounds like The Vanishing (1988) compared to the director’s US remake (1993) which had a much more disturbing conclusion. The popcorn crowd in this country can’t handle anything but a happy, unrealistic ending.
@@justheretocommentokdontwan685 I totally agree. I can't remember the last time I've watched a film that shocked me and after the credits rolled, I'm sitting in silence.
@@tj2375 allot of times that’s just a better way to make stories more marketable. Given the couple is American vs Brits, obviously Americans are not going to roll over and play dead like the danish couple etc
The Danish movie only came out in 2022 and at least half of it is in English - and it was Popular in the US among certain demographics so I dont understand the reason behind this remake
I never seen the original, nor have I seen any trailers for this remake. What I know about it is basically what you said and a few other reviewers. All basically spoiler free. I am very excited for this one
It's an American re-make but the director is English and has a history of making quite dark, unsettling horror/thrillers, often with some focus on psychological and/or political themes. At the very least, he's a good choice to direct this kind of film.
Haneke-lite There's a streak of Euro "realist horror" that is so indebted to Haneke, but with not nearly as much understanding about the dark corners of humanity. They're just stark and bleak. The original had this problem where you're shocked by the ending only to think about it later and go, "naw, that just doesn't seem real..." I rarely (if every) feel that about Haneke. Even the worst actions have serious merit.
I loved the original. It's a commentary on public willingness to follow edicts from authority despite inherent personal risk. Also about cultural politeness. That's where the humor was, in the first half of the movie. Haven't seen this one yet, but it's been only two years since the original
Yeah well imo it doesn't land. Normal people would not stay for so long with so many blatant antisocial occurences. The start was them leaving their daughter with an unknown babysitter. After they're spyed on having sex, I was rolling my eyes. But WAIT, there's way more after that. Really bad movie with a ham-fisted message that, again, only works if it is based on reality and not just downright silly.
As said elsewhere, it's essential to see the original, before you can arrive at a verdict as to which is the best film! Personally, I am always adverse to remakes, if only because in most cases they prove to be unnecessary as well as inferior to the original!
I imagine the Danish original must have been really frustrating for people outside of Northern Europe. It basically deconstructed our most pathetic stereotypes and flaws, and made the characters go to hell for it. Curious how this will work with American protagonists.
as an American I typically enjoy the foreign original film much much more than the american remake, I think in this case they are about on the same level because some things are changed...it did remind me a lot of Haneke and how he did two versions of Funny Games, still think the foreign for that and this are both better movies.
I has to read Blyton incessantly to my eldest son from 18 months old. By two years old he knew them by heart. I thought he was pretending to read them from memory. Until I gave him an unfamiliar author to expose his ruse, but no, he read marvellously. By age 10y the school asked for an educational psychologist to see him. Due to bad behaviour. The psychologist was ecstatic. She only had material with her to test IQ up to 159. Which he completed in such a short time she guessed his IQ was very much higher than 159. Irrespective , his behaviour continued to deteriorate. He is now 31y old- never been to university - and never had a job. Never really had a GF - though handsome - and still never cleaned his teeth properly Broke my heart. Luckily I have two other sons. Blyton's fault ! NO Don't be silly Though she brought back this memory.
Haven't seen this movie, but your review reminds me of the difference between "The Vanishing" (an excellent French/Dutch thriller from the 80s) and the inferior American remake that came out a few years later (with Keifer Sutherland). The remake didn't have the guts to avoid a happy ending.
Glad you liked it! I thought it was a great, tense thriller, brilliantly acted. I’m sure some will say the film is tame compared to the original however I like that we have 2 different versions to suit ones taste
@@tio760 tomorrow ! It’s available online already though… But, this film is made for the theater… So if you can, definitely watch it there. You won’t regret it
I am not sure if I would have liked this movie, if I wouldn't have seen the original. But I can only recommend to watch the danish version. It is so much darker and there is no "happy end" like in the american version. The original is one of the best movies I have seen for a long time.
He was a lot of fun in Split but nothing on the level of a true oscar-worthy performance like Bale in 'Vice,' Fassbender in 12 Years a Slave, Viggo in Eastern Promises, Cruise in Magnolia, Sinise in Forest Gump, Crowe in The Insider, Berenger in Platoon, Costner in Dances with Wolves or Denzel in Flight.
Completely agree with you! Disagree with the person who replied to you, Vice was dog shit, one of two movies in my life where I walked out of the theater.
@deepfocuslens 😊The first and final act are not duplicates, but unlike many of us who saw the first film you weren’t influenced by slightly dissimilar takes on the same characters. Enjoying watching your channel grow. Great insight on film & motion pictures (digital).
Expectations are everything and a similar audience helps. My friends and I knew the original was a serious and sinister horror film. What we wanted out of this version was a different spin, a darkly hilarious comedy with thriller elements and, apparently, so did our audience. Everyone was laughing throughout, cheering whenever an evil character got some comeuppance, and cheered and clapped at the end. Lots of talk about it being so much fun and people planning to share by word of mouth and bringing friends and significant others to see it as we exited the theater. Ben the cuck is an underrated character because he sets up many of the scenes and awesome work McAvoy does.
I have now seen the og. I think the cuck character is handled much better in the original. The writing overall worked better for me in the original. But...I actually do agree with you on a lot of what you say. I think I would recommend the new one over the old. But...both films miss the mark for me.
It would not hurt to add a movie poster to the movie you're reviewing. Easy thing to do. Might attract more viewers in their feed. Thanks for your reviews I enjoy them.
great review as usual. I have only seen the original and really have no desire to see the remake cause I feel like the original did everything it set out to do. I would really love to see you review the original at some point cheers
I was hoping you had watched the original and could give us a compare, contrast. I have only seen the original, and the violence in the trailer for the remake confused me. In the original there is no violence until the infamous car scene (the reason the car is the focus of the film poster). By then it is already too late for the family. I was hoping I could get a nuanced comparison of the two.
Blumhouse changed the entire third act to conform to a happy ending, thereby completely destroying the impact of the Danish original film. It's as if he bought the rights to remake a film, that Jason Blum didn't understand.
not a Blum fan, but disagree here. the remake expands on almost all of the various character dynamics, and while I would have liked its ending to get a little bleaker, it is by no means a happy ending.
@@huellhowser9038i always found that take interesting, that a movie ending is happy just because everyone doesnt die. The ending is still very violent and intense, and the characters are thoroughly traumatized and emotionally destroyed. Its more light in comparison to the original, but theres absolutely nothing happy about either the original or the remake. I also think people are downplaying the darkness of the remake simply because it doesnt go for the same extreme that the original did, which is valid i guess but also unfair in one regard
Just due my schedule, i saw this and Rebel Ridge back to back. Both had reallllly nice protagonists 😀 Both films, i was yelling at the screen, damn, no, say something else!
I saw the film tonight. I did not like it. I do believe Mackenzie Davis and her character were great. “They’re not pleasant to be around,” is a good way to sum it all up. James McAvoy gives a great performance, but I never found his character charming in the slightest. His character from the beginning comes off as obnoxious. There were things I did like, such as those two performances and the final 30 minutes. Once the reveal happens, it pulls itself ever so slightly together for me, even though it is, as you stated, a pretty typical cat and mouse series of events. I also wish they would have leaned more into the dark comedy. There were some good laughs here and there. I like how the first shot of James McAvoy is us looking up at him, and the final shot of him is us looking down at him. That works well for how Scoot McNairy feels towards him at first and how he ends up feeling towards him. I believe the film would have worked if everything (not including the reveal) wasn’t so obvious from the jump. I can normally suspend disbelief and not put my own self and what I would do in a film, but I thought it was ridiculous that they went there and found those people appealing in the first place. This film just did not work for me.
I haven’t seen the remake but I hated the original and here’s why: the movie asks the viewer to suspend disbelief to an extent I am not capable of. I simply don’t believe that real human beings with an actual survival instinct would behave as the “victim” couple in the film. Without spoiling anything, I’m thinking of two scenes/decisions in particular, one pivotal one in the middle and one ridiculous one towards the end. They’re both the equivalent of the “let’s hide behind the chainsaws” moment in that insurance commercial, only less believable.
I agree. Leaving your daughter with a random babysitter booked by 2 people you barely know is when I knew the writer was an idiot. Both versions were terrible but at least the American version had a satisfying ending.
I too felt the same regarding the original film. Although the writer is trying to convince us by adding at climax - Why r u doing this to us? Because u let us. But it doesn't seem to happen in the real world.
You definitely overestimate the intelligence of the general public and underestimate the tendency to do irrational things in extreme circumstances. Humans are far more irrational and dumb than you think
Saw the original a few months back. When I heard the remake changed the ending, just lost some interest because I’m guessing they did the typical happy Hollywood ending. McAvoy’s performance is the only thing making me interested in seeing it.
The finale veers away from the original film's ending and is more heavily inspired by 'Straw Dogs,' with the dysfunctional couple (and wimpy husband) battling against some murderous hooligans.
OK. So as others have commented, if you haven't yet then you really ought to watch the original, which only came out 2 years before this version btw. It owes a lot to another Dutch film, The Vanishing or Spoorloos, by its orignal name, which was also had a US remake that was similarly watered down. The energy in the 3rd act that you're missing, let's just say, it's a little different. As a whole, the casting is better, the acting is better, it's not clean and overproduced - essentially it has the aesthetic that you say you would have preferred. McAvoy has been getting a lot of praise for hi performance in this film, I'm not on board with that - he's done this before - Split for instance. I found it very hammy, a caricature. I think since I'm from the UK, I can tell when it's being over done - culturally. I won't spoil the orignal but as I said the acting is way better IMO and the menace conveyed far more convincingly. Honestly, they are almost like two different films.
The McAvoy character was so annoying seeing how incapable Ben was in dealing with him. People like that you shut down the second they try to cross the line and hard. Maybe you do so in a humorous way but you end it. I also couldn’t stand all the bad decisions being made… like why are they trying to go off the roof? Pull the hammer out of Mikes head and charge down the stairs 😅.
I saw the original and just never want to go back to that world. I can't say that I like where this film goes. I'm not okay with hurting kids unless you fully possess them like in Evil Dead Rise because it's hidden in the outlandish and I can pull the thread of kids trying to find a rational parent swimming in addiction. This film is remorseless and too close to home and I hated it for that. But that doesn't make it a good film. I don't want to see it again and I don't want to see the remake. But it's ridiculously marketed and I want this to just dissipate and be gone until something better gathers our interest.
I thought the movie was cool, but after watching the original this past weekend, it feels like McAvoy's fun performance is the saving grace and otherwise most every element I can think of is less interesting, less creative, and packs a smaller punch in the remake. Now the entire third act of the remake feels boring and incongruent with the theme of the story to me.
I’m familiar with the original Danish film. Reminded me of things like Funny Games and With a Friend Like Harry. I doubt I’ll be watching this pointless remake, no matter how good critics say it is, unless it’s radically different. Why do they have to keep making remakes of superior overseas films? The Guilty, Force Majeure, you name it. Now this…who asked for it?
It is baffling that they remade this film considering the original is 95% in English. It's also a far bleaker film, and James Watkins directed Eden Lake, which is similarly bleak. I agree with the other commenters. You have to see the original version. It's like comparing The Vanishing with The Vanishing. I don't like the original film as much as most people do, but I will say that it is BOLD and does not ask you to like it. It's one of the most audience unfriendly films ever made; not an exaggeration at all.
I just saw the original.. it is really revolting. But that was the point of the movie. This remake missed the point. Much like "a serbian film" this movie offers a profound social commentary. The hints and metaphors are there for you to figure it out.
its a damn shame you saw this version first. The original is a special and very bleak experience. Please don't pass on it. Anything good about this is so much better in the original.
I had forgotten the name of the Danish movie but as soon as the oy opened his mouth and tried to tell the other father something, I knew exactly the movie. It's not even close though, they ruined this version. Watch the Danish version. The acting was better, you believed that this was how protagonists were. It's way more gritty and then the ending. Come on, what a cope out in the American version, they ruined the ending.
In the original they sneak out early one morning and leave, but they forget to bring the daughter's cuddly toy/pacifier and as she is upset the father decides to go back for it. Fatal mistake. His inability to let his daughter be uncomfortable leads them to their demise. This is in keeping with the theme of the film, as played out in scene's between the characters. In the remake there is a scene where they disagree about if it is necessary to make a child 'uncomfortable', but it doesnt follow through with this theme and it is more or less disregarded by the climax. I got they wanted to change the ending to be more pallatable for commercial reasons but this could've been achieved without throwing away the whole point of the set-up by using just a little bit of imagination. Such a lazy third act. The original isn't a great film by any means either.
Appreciate you saying the last part because this comments section seems to think the OG is a masterpiece. You mention the bunny, and I see your point about the theme it's very overt in the film. My only question is: What family would go back for it? The answer is: They wouldn't. They would buy a new one lmao, I was throwing my hands up in frustration. And have to go through the painfully awkward situation of explaining themselves? For a movie all about social conventions, we all know in 2022 (non-confrontational social media land) it ain't happening for a stupid bunny and a child crying for an hour or so max.
I walked out of the theater right after the girl wanted her stuffed animal back.. movie felt stupid and not believable.. James McAvoy is a great actor though 😆
Maggie I saw The Substance Yesterday at TIFF. It was so disturbing at times that I had to step out and a woman at my screening fainted. Its defo Demi Moore s strongest performances
Huh. American remakes of foreign films, especially when they come less than a decade after the originals, have a mixed record. Your review, however, has nudged me in going to see it.
I hate European movies. So much ego and pretentiousness. I saw the Danish movie and got so turned off that I'm not even interested in the American version. These characters are written dumb because the film wanted to make a point, and that mattered to him more than actually making something entertaining.
I agree about the American version but I disagree about your take on the Danish one. I felt the situations were more believable. The acting much grittier. And of course, they stuck the ending in the Danish version, unlike this one.
@@davey64 Look man. We get mad at characters in American horror movies when they act dumb. But when Europeans do it suddenly it's deep. No. It's just pretentious garbage.
I can't watch this. I watched the Danish version. The mother Madame so made in THAT scene that I almost threw my monitor across the room. Okay, not really. But I was extremely irritated by these stupid parents.
Whats so baffling about remaking this is that the original is mosrly in English anyway. The original is a horrror classic to me aleeady and I have no interest in checking out the remake.
Speaking of "something off about" James McAvoy, would love to hear what you think about him opposite Anya Taylor-Joy in "Split" (2016). I've personally always found him to be a poor man's Jude Law. While Aisling Franciosi comes across to me as a lamer Lily James.
I didn’t think she said there was something off about McAvoy in terms of performance and praised him. Jude Law is an incredibly weird comparison to me unless you’re purely going by McAvoy’s very early film roles and even then Jude Law typically played a lot of smouldering pretty boy roles that McAvoy has never really done.
I don't understand you Americans - how can you watch the remake which is made only because illiterate audience can't read the subtitles? You are better than that. You are doing yourself injustice - you will never be able to watch the original with clear mind now. The original is an interesting movie, well executed, it's ok, but its forgettable, in my opinion. I would watch a remake only if somebody like Lynch would do it (of course - Lynch would never do it) :)
I just watched it and i don't think i have ever been this angry after a movie. Typical hollywod garbage ending. I can't believe the guy who made Eden lake can deliver this grabage, action movie third act, when you had the original right in front of you. And i can't believe the reviews are so positive. Just...Ugh
The only thing more laughable than this american version being so cowardly sanitized and light in comparision to the brutal and almost unwatchable (bc the tension and the things that happen are unbearable if not straight up infuraiting) is that it's directed by the guy that made Eden Lake, another miserable downer feel like shit after watching it european horror classic. It has good performances but only that. The good thing for you is they took away all the good and heavy parts so the original is basically an entire diferent movie after the midpoint.
This is the most disappointing remake I've seen in awhile because it actually started out promising. Unfortunately, it turned out to be an epic piece of garbage at the end. If you want to see a truly disturbing movie that will make you think and stick with you for days, watch the original film. If you want to see the dumbed down version that says nothing in the end, watch this pathetic remake. James McAvoy was perfectly cast but he can't save the disastrous writing that ultimately ruined this movie. I'm not sure why you would review a remake without seeing the original either.
I much preferred the original, and I think calling this a horror film would be doing it a disservice, solely because I wasn’t scared and never felt any tension (same can’t be said for the original) but man was it funny. James McAvoy had me absolutely howling he is too funny in this
You absolutely NEED to see the original version. It's on AMC+ and has way more weight than the American version. Once I saw the Danish version, I knew the American version wouldn't have the heart to go there like the original did.
That´s for sure😄
Eh, the Danish version is fine. The ending really has all the juice of that movie, and even it strain credulity.
I actually prefer the American Version. It becomes slightly more conventional, but it has a nastiness and a rich sense of a type of British culture that really makes it it's own thing!
I saw the Danish version first a year or two ago and ADORED it, although it is extremely bleak. I went in to this one expecting to dislike it, but I found the complete change of the third act (not just outcome, but the entire plot) really fascinating and I think it made me like this version more than I would have if I hadn’t seen the original at all. I still definitely prefer the original, but I’d be very curious to hear the opinion of someone watching them in the other order.
@@jamestaylor2333 “heart to go there” meaning very danish. Obviously from an American viewpoint, the mains aren’t just going to “roll over and take it”
Watched the Danish version, it was terrible lmao. Any normal family would have left 35 minutes into the stay. Hiring a babysitter I don't know? Instant "let's go honey." And don't give me the Danish culture crap either, it's way too heavy-handed here.
The orginal is much more political in essence, it draws, explores and relies on the cultural, traditional and historical differences and conflicts between Dutch and Denmark "mentality" , which adds crucial layer to the characters and the whole plot and the story, and particularly the 3th act. The remake disregards this in it's entirety, or at least can't capture it with British/American counterparts (not even close), hence this whole aspect is rather crude in the remake. I strongly recommend watching the original first.
Ur such a good articulator, enjoy your reviews
I'm just happy I never have to see the trailer ever again.
Oh god yes.
I love your reviews. It makes me want to up my game when I'm trying to dissect movies for myself.
The classic final act cliff fall. Companies like Universal, 20th century, and Warner Brothers are notorious for the classic Bait and Switch. They give us good suspense and intrigue for majority of the movie, then the final act turns into popcorn cheese.
4:00
When I think of James McAvoy I immediately think hyper-masculine type. He’s been ripped for many years and is absolutely wild, animalistic even in everything I’ve seen him in past years, like Atomic Blonde, Glass and this one. But I’ve never seen him as romantic lead, so maybe that’s why we have associations so different.
He’s great in atonement as a romantic lead
He was romantic led in Wanted with Angelina Jolie
Thank you for being so honest !! With so many review channels I have the impression I know exactly what they are going to say from the thumbnail, and it’s not that individualistic, so thank you !! X I’m deciding which movie to watch tonight at the cinema based on your reviews
so you didn't like the 3rd act, you know why you didn't like the 3rd act? because that was the only thing they changed in this remake! 3rd act in the original is so much darker
Very European
Sounds like The Vanishing (1988) compared to the director’s US remake (1993) which had a much more disturbing conclusion. The popcorn crowd in this country can’t handle anything but a happy, unrealistic ending.
@@justheretocommentokdontwan685 I totally agree. I can't remember the last time I've watched a film that shocked me and after the credits rolled, I'm sitting in silence.
@@GizmoBeach
No I like they changed the ending🍻
@@tj2375 allot of times that’s just a better way to make stories more marketable. Given the couple is American vs Brits, obviously Americans are not going to roll over and play dead like the danish couple etc
The Danish movie only came out in 2022 and at least half of it is in English - and it was Popular in the US among certain demographics so I dont understand the reason behind this remake
I never seen the original, nor have I seen any trailers for this remake. What I know about it is basically what you said and a few other reviewers. All basically spoiler free. I am very excited for this one
“Portrait of a family in crisis” would be a great movie title
Nothing wrong with the Danish version - I loved it. And "it went there".
Oh, there's a lot wrong with it.
@@user61920 Haha, every critique of it, has your stupid username over it...
It's an American re-make but the director is English and has a history of making quite dark, unsettling horror/thrillers, often with some focus on psychological and/or political themes. At the very least, he's a good choice to direct this kind of film.
Trust me, the original one is so good. The final part, particularly, is strong, provocative and depressing. It really has that Michael Haneke's vibe.
Haneke-lite
There's a streak of Euro "realist horror" that is so indebted to Haneke, but with not nearly as much understanding about the dark corners of humanity. They're just stark and bleak. The original had this problem where you're shocked by the ending only to think about it later and go, "naw, that just doesn't seem real..."
I rarely (if every) feel that about Haneke. Even the worst actions have serious merit.
I loved the original. It's a commentary on public willingness to follow edicts from authority despite inherent personal risk. Also about cultural politeness. That's where the humor was, in the first half of the movie. Haven't seen this one yet, but it's been only two years since the original
Yeah well imo it doesn't land. Normal people would not stay for so long with so many blatant antisocial occurences. The start was them leaving their daughter with an unknown babysitter. After they're spyed on having sex, I was rolling my eyes. But WAIT, there's way more after that. Really bad movie with a ham-fisted message that, again, only works if it is based on reality and not just downright silly.
@@user61920 Just disagree with your take. I think @steely10 is spot on. To each his own.
@@user61920 You are entitled to your opinion, but many disagree
As said elsewhere, it's essential to see the original, before you can arrive at a verdict as to which is the best film! Personally, I am always adverse to remakes, if only because in most cases they prove to be unnecessary as well as inferior to the original!
Dutch version was only came out 2 years ago and is in English. Zero point remaking it
I imagine the Danish original must have been really frustrating for people outside of Northern Europe. It basically deconstructed our most pathetic stereotypes and flaws, and made the characters go to hell for it. Curious how this will work with American protagonists.
as an American I typically enjoy the foreign original film much much more than the american remake, I think in this case they are about on the same level because some things are changed...it did remind me a lot of Haneke and how he did two versions of Funny Games, still think the foreign for that and this are both better movies.
I has to read Blyton incessantly to my eldest son from 18 months old. By two years old he knew them by heart. I thought he was pretending to read them from memory. Until I gave him an unfamiliar author to expose his ruse, but no, he read marvellously.
By age 10y the school asked for an educational psychologist to see him. Due to bad behaviour. The psychologist was ecstatic. She only had material with her to test IQ up to 159. Which he completed in such a short time she guessed his IQ was very much higher than 159.
Irrespective , his behaviour continued to deteriorate.
He is now 31y old- never been to university - and never had a job.
Never really had a GF - though handsome - and still never cleaned his teeth properly
Broke my heart. Luckily I have two other sons.
Blyton's fault ! NO Don't be silly
Though she brought back this memory.
Haven't seen this movie, but your review reminds me of the difference between "The Vanishing" (an excellent French/Dutch thriller from the 80s) and the inferior American remake that came out a few years later (with Keifer Sutherland). The remake didn't have the guts to avoid a happy ending.
The Vanishing is one of my favorite films of all time, absolutely haunting.
One thing is fact:
James McAvoy plays a sinister villian brilliantly, likewise as the horde from split😮🌟
Glad you liked it! I thought it was a great, tense thriller, brilliantly acted. I’m sure some will say the film is tame compared to the original however I like that we have 2 different versions to suit ones taste
Disappointed you haven't seen the original. It's one of the most brutal watches you'll ever have.
The original is fantastic and this remake is fantastic. 💯
Now this is what I've been wanting to hear!
It's a fucking rarity. Not since Let Me In has a remake been this good
@@felyxmillicent6538 Unfortunately after seeing this I totally disagree. And that goes for Let Me In as well.
Hi…
You NEED to see “The Substance”
Sincerely.
Agreed, even though I'm conflicted on the execution of its themes it has some of the most memorable and wild moments of any film this year.
Is it coming to theaters soon??
@@tio760 tomorrow !
It’s available online already though…
But, this film is made for the theater…
So if you can, definitely watch it there.
You won’t regret it
I am not sure if I would have liked this movie, if I wouldn't have seen the original. But I can only recommend to watch the danish version. It is so much darker and there is no "happy end" like in the american version. The original is one of the best movies I have seen for a long time.
I think he was academy award winning in Split
He was a lot of fun in Split but nothing on the level of a true oscar-worthy performance like Bale in 'Vice,' Fassbender in 12 Years a Slave, Viggo in Eastern Promises, Cruise in Magnolia, Sinise in Forest Gump, Crowe in The Insider, Berenger in Platoon, Costner in Dances with Wolves or Denzel in Flight.
Completely agree with you! Disagree with the person who replied to you, Vice was dog shit, one of two movies in my life where I walked out of the theater.
@deepfocuslens 😊The first and final act are not duplicates, but unlike many of us who saw the first film you weren’t influenced by slightly dissimilar takes on the same characters. Enjoying watching your channel grow. Great insight on film & motion pictures (digital).
Expectations are everything and a similar audience helps. My friends and I knew the original was a serious and sinister horror film. What we wanted out of this version was a different spin, a darkly hilarious comedy with thriller elements and, apparently, so did our audience. Everyone was laughing throughout, cheering whenever an evil character got some comeuppance, and cheered and clapped at the end. Lots of talk about it being so much fun and people planning to share by word of mouth and bringing friends and significant others to see it as we exited the theater. Ben the cuck is an underrated character because he sets up many of the scenes and awesome work McAvoy does.
I have now seen the og. I think the cuck character is handled much better in the original. The writing overall worked better for me in the original. But...I actually do agree with you on a lot of what you say. I think I would recommend the new one over the old. But...both films miss the mark for me.
It sounds like you would like the original film much more. I really enjoy your videos and appreciate how much thought you put into them ❤
@deepfocuslens You HAVE to watch (and review) the original. Everything you’ve missing (and much more) from the remake is in the original.
It would not hurt to add a movie poster to the movie you're reviewing. Easy thing to do. Might attract more viewers in their feed. Thanks for your reviews I enjoy them.
Spot on review, as always 👌
Can please you tell me which thriller was more absorbing and scary than this film to you in 2024? Please I’d love to watch it. I can’t think of any.
great review as usual. I have only seen the original and really have no desire to see the remake cause I feel like the original did everything it set out to do. I would really love to see you review the original at some point cheers
I was hoping you had watched the original and could give us a compare, contrast. I have only seen the original, and the violence in the trailer for the remake confused me. In the original there is no violence until the infamous car scene (the reason the car is the focus of the film poster). By then it is already too late for the family. I was hoping I could get a nuanced comparison of the two.
I highly recommend the original. I think the ending is different, and I wonder if the remake will go there too. I will find out soon.
Just left the cinema. Best Thriller of 2024! I was on the edge of my seat! Go watch it!
Blumhouse changed the entire third act to conform to a happy ending, thereby completely destroying the impact of the Danish original film. It's as if he bought the rights to remake a film, that Jason Blum didn't understand.
not a Blum fan, but disagree here. the remake expands on almost all of the various character dynamics, and while I would have liked its ending to get a little bleaker, it is by no means a happy ending.
@@huellhowser9038i always found that take interesting, that a movie ending is happy just because everyone doesnt die. The ending is still very violent and intense, and the characters are thoroughly traumatized and emotionally destroyed. Its more light in comparison to the original, but theres absolutely nothing happy about either the original or the remake. I also think people are downplaying the darkness of the remake simply because it doesnt go for the same extreme that the original did, which is valid i guess but also unfair in one regard
The original also sucks
PLEASE DO A REVIEW FOR
(🔥THE SUBSTANCE🔥) WHEN IT COMES OUT THANK YOU I LOVE YOUR VIDEOS SWEET AND TO THE POINT !!!
You make it sound like A River Wild with Meryl Streep and Kevin Bacon, minus the river.
Just due my schedule, i saw this and Rebel Ridge back to back. Both had reallllly nice protagonists 😀 Both films, i was yelling at the screen, damn, no, say something else!
You must see the original!
I just saw this a few hours ago and I loved it. I felt uncomfortable from start to finish and you cant ask for more than that
Have you seen Aisling in The Nightingale? Great
A masterpiece of a film.
@@iansmart4158 For sure mate
I saw the film tonight. I did not like it. I do believe Mackenzie Davis and her character were great. “They’re not pleasant to be around,” is a good way to sum it all up. James McAvoy gives a great performance, but I never found his character charming in the slightest. His character from the beginning comes off as obnoxious. There were things I did like, such as those two performances and the final 30 minutes. Once the reveal happens, it pulls itself ever so slightly together for me, even though it is, as you stated, a pretty typical cat and mouse series of events. I also wish they would have leaned more into the dark comedy. There were some good laughs here and there. I like how the first shot of James McAvoy is us looking up at him, and the final shot of him is us looking down at him. That works well for how Scoot McNairy feels towards him at first and how he ends up feeling towards him. I believe the film would have worked if everything (not including the reveal) wasn’t so obvious from the jump. I can normally suspend disbelief and not put my own self and what I would do in a film, but I thought it was ridiculous that they went there and found those people appealing in the first place. This film just did not work for me.
we’re all living for your review of The Substance to drop, FYI
please review Sanctuary also with Margaret!
the original is worth watching, if you liked this film i'd recommend it
I liked it, but I prefer the original.
I haven’t seen the remake but I hated the original and here’s why: the movie asks the viewer to suspend disbelief to an extent I am not capable of. I simply don’t believe that real human beings with an actual survival instinct would behave as the “victim” couple in the film. Without spoiling anything, I’m thinking of two scenes/decisions in particular, one pivotal one in the middle and one ridiculous one towards the end. They’re both the equivalent of the “let’s hide behind the chainsaws” moment in that insurance commercial, only less believable.
I agree. Leaving your daughter with a random babysitter booked by 2 people you barely know is when I knew the writer was an idiot. Both versions were terrible but at least the American version had a satisfying ending.
I too felt the same regarding the original film. Although the writer is trying to convince us by adding at climax - Why r u doing this to us? Because u let us. But it doesn't seem to happen in the real world.
@@emm3485that doesn’t make the writer an idiot, the characters however, yeah.
You definitely overestimate the intelligence of the general public and underestimate the tendency to do irrational things in extreme circumstances. Humans are far more irrational and dumb than you think
"Why are you doing this to us? Because you let us." Hmmmm...where have we heard that before....ahhh ha! That whole WWII thingie
Saw the original a few months back. When I heard the remake changed the ending, just lost some interest because I’m guessing they did the typical happy Hollywood ending. McAvoy’s performance is the only thing making me interested in seeing it.
I thought this film was genuinely disturbing from start to finish, and McAvoy put in a great performance. Keen to see the original though!
I am a huge fan of your reviews and I can’t watch this one because you need to see the original version in order to comment on the remake
I saw the og and I don’t think I need to see this remake
The finale veers away from the original film's ending and is more heavily inspired by 'Straw Dogs,' with the dysfunctional couple (and wimpy husband) battling against some murderous hooligans.
I love the Eternal Flame scene, it was so awkward 😅😅😅
OK. So as others have commented, if you haven't yet then you really ought to watch the original, which only came out 2 years before this version btw. It owes a lot to another Dutch film, The Vanishing or Spoorloos, by its orignal name, which was also had a US remake that was similarly watered down. The energy in the 3rd act that you're missing, let's just say, it's a little different. As a whole, the casting is better, the acting is better, it's not clean and overproduced - essentially it has the aesthetic that you say you would have preferred. McAvoy has been getting a lot of praise for hi performance in this film, I'm not on board with that - he's done this before - Split for instance. I found it very hammy, a caricature. I think since I'm from the UK, I can tell when it's being over done - culturally. I won't spoil the orignal but as I said the acting is way better IMO and the menace conveyed far more convincingly.
Honestly, they are almost like two different films.
The McAvoy character was so annoying seeing how incapable Ben was in dealing with him. People like that you shut down the second they try to cross the line and hard. Maybe you do so in a humorous way but you end it. I also couldn’t stand all the bad decisions being made… like why are they trying to go off the roof? Pull the hammer out of Mikes head and charge down the stairs 😅.
I saw the original and just never want to go back to that world. I can't say that I like where this film goes. I'm not okay with hurting kids unless you fully possess them like in Evil Dead Rise because it's hidden in the outlandish and I can pull the thread of kids trying to find a rational parent swimming in addiction. This film is remorseless and too close to home and I hated it for that. But that doesn't make it a good film. I don't want to see it again and I don't want to see the remake. But it's ridiculously marketed and I want this to just dissipate and be gone until something better gathers our interest.
Based off the comment section, the original is better.
I thought the movie was cool, but after watching the original this past weekend, it feels like McAvoy's fun performance is the saving grace and otherwise most every element I can think of is less interesting, less creative, and packs a smaller punch in the remake. Now the entire third act of the remake feels boring and incongruent with the theme of the story to me.
I’m familiar with the original Danish film. Reminded me of things like Funny Games and With a Friend Like Harry. I doubt I’ll be watching this pointless remake, no matter how good critics say it is, unless it’s radically different.
Why do they have to keep making remakes of superior overseas films? The Guilty, Force Majeure, you name it. Now this…who asked for it?
The American version is better; give it a look!
It is baffling that they remade this film considering the original is 95% in English. It's also a far bleaker film, and James Watkins directed Eden Lake, which is similarly bleak.
I agree with the other commenters. You have to see the original version. It's like comparing The Vanishing with The Vanishing. I don't like the original film as much as most people do, but I will say that it is BOLD and does not ask you to like it. It's one of the most audience unfriendly films ever made; not an exaggeration at all.
Havent seen the original but I will say the batshit man and woman were couple goals.
Execpt for the fact that she was 12 when they met
The original is good and I would hate to watch a remake of a film from 2 years ago
I just saw the original.. it is really revolting. But that was the point of the movie. This remake missed the point.
Much like "a serbian film" this movie offers a profound social commentary. The hints and metaphors are there for you to figure it out.
Watch the original...
We have Straw Dogs at home
its a damn shame you saw this version first. The original is a special and very bleak experience. Please don't pass on it. Anything good about this is so much better in the original.
I had forgotten the name of the Danish movie but as soon as the oy opened his mouth and tried to tell the other father something, I knew exactly the movie. It's not even close though, they ruined this version. Watch the Danish version. The acting was better, you believed that this was how protagonists were. It's way more gritty and then the ending. Come on, what a cope out in the American version, they ruined the ending.
In the original they sneak out early one morning and leave, but they forget to bring the daughter's cuddly toy/pacifier and as she is upset the father decides to go back for it. Fatal mistake. His inability to let his daughter be uncomfortable leads them to their demise. This is in keeping with the theme of the film, as played out in scene's between the characters.
In the remake there is a scene where they disagree about if it is necessary to make a child 'uncomfortable', but it doesnt follow through with this theme and it is more or less disregarded by the climax.
I got they wanted to change the ending to be more pallatable for commercial reasons but this could've been achieved without throwing away the whole point of the set-up by using just a little bit of imagination. Such a lazy third act.
The original isn't a great film by any means either.
Appreciate you saying the last part because this comments section seems to think the OG is a masterpiece. You mention the bunny, and I see your point about the theme it's very overt in the film. My only question is: What family would go back for it? The answer is: They wouldn't. They would buy a new one lmao, I was throwing my hands up in frustration. And have to go through the painfully awkward situation of explaining themselves? For a movie all about social conventions, we all know in 2022 (non-confrontational social media land) it ain't happening for a stupid bunny and a child crying for an hour or so max.
The my remade a 2 year old movie?? Madness
Several years? Let´s make that two. 😁😉
I walked out of the theater right after the girl wanted her stuffed animal back.. movie felt stupid and not believable.. James McAvoy is a great actor though 😆
Changing the ending defeats the point of the original film
Maggie I saw The Substance Yesterday at TIFF. It was so disturbing at times that I had to step out and a woman at my screening fainted. Its defo Demi Moore s strongest performances
"i liked this film " ........ watching it!
do yourself a huge favor and watch the original instead.
The third act was fun for me with its Home Alone violence😃
When are you gonna review The Wrestler? Lol or Wings Of Desire
She needs to review seven Samura, Manhunter or hidden fortress or the last temptation of Christ or rumble fish
Or heat
Or the insider
The original kicked this americanised version up the ass.
You are so amazing
Huh. American remakes of foreign films, especially when they come less than a decade after the originals, have a mixed record. Your review, however, has nudged me in going to see it.
I hate European movies. So much ego and pretentiousness. I saw the Danish movie and got so turned off that I'm not even interested in the American version. These characters are written dumb because the film wanted to make a point, and that mattered to him more than actually making something entertaining.
I agree about the American version but I disagree about your take on the Danish one. I felt the situations were more believable. The acting much grittier. And of course, they stuck the ending in the Danish version, unlike this one.
@@davey64 Look man. We get mad at characters in American horror movies when they act dumb. But when Europeans do it suddenly it's deep. No. It's just pretentious garbage.
I can't watch this. I watched the Danish version. The mother Madame so made in THAT scene that I almost threw my monitor across the room.
Okay, not really. But I was extremely irritated by these stupid parents.
Whats so baffling about remaking this is that the original is mosrly in English anyway. The original is a horrror classic to me aleeady and I have no interest in checking out the remake.
REVIEW REBEL RIDGE
Speaking of "something off about" James McAvoy, would love to hear what you think about him opposite Anya Taylor-Joy in "Split" (2016). I've personally always found him to be a poor man's Jude Law. While Aisling Franciosi comes across to me as a lamer Lily James.
I didn’t think she said there was something off about McAvoy in terms of performance and praised him. Jude Law is an incredibly weird comparison to me unless you’re purely going by McAvoy’s very early film roles and even then Jude Law typically played a lot of smouldering pretty boy roles that McAvoy has never really done.
Jude Law is poor man's Jude Law
Im sorry to say this but your Channel is Shadow banned on youtube for some reason.
Haven't watched 2024 version but 2022 version was one of the worst movies I've ever watched.
I don't understand you Americans - how can you watch the remake which is made only because illiterate audience can't read the subtitles? You are better than that. You are doing yourself injustice - you will never be able to watch the original with clear mind now. The original is an interesting movie, well executed, it's ok, but its forgettable, in my opinion. I would watch a remake only if somebody like Lynch would do it (of course - Lynch would never do it) :)
Beetlejuice?
I just watched it and i don't think i have ever been this angry after a movie. Typical hollywod garbage ending. I can't believe the guy who made Eden lake can deliver this grabage, action movie third act, when you had the original right in front of you. And i can't believe the reviews are so positive. Just...Ugh
Ah god, the original is at least 600% worse then this one!
The only thing more laughable than this american version being so cowardly sanitized and light in comparision to the brutal and almost unwatchable (bc the tension and the things that happen are unbearable if not straight up infuraiting) is that it's directed by the guy that made Eden Lake, another miserable downer feel like shit after watching it european horror classic.
It has good performances but only that. The good thing for you is they took away all the good and heavy parts so the original is basically an entire diferent movie after the midpoint.
This is the most disappointing remake I've seen in awhile because it actually started out promising. Unfortunately, it turned out to be an epic piece of garbage at the end. If you want to see a truly disturbing movie that will make you think and stick with you for days, watch the original film. If you want to see the dumbed down version that says nothing in the end, watch this pathetic remake. James McAvoy was perfectly cast but he can't save the disastrous writing that ultimately ruined this movie. I'm not sure why you would review a remake without seeing the original either.
The original is so much better it’s not even funny
*THE SUBSTANCE*
*THE SUBSTANCE*
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Girl…you must see this thing. 🔥 💀 💀 💀
This is my most anticipated film of the year.
Not so good and stupid original, needs no f**ckin' remake.
I much preferred the original, and I think calling this a horror film would be doing it a disservice, solely because I wasn’t scared and never felt any tension (same can’t be said for the original) but man was it funny. James McAvoy had me absolutely howling he is too funny in this
@@timsenesi6161 The restaurant scene... 😂😂😂
@@jamestaylor2333 dude 😂 between that and the ‘that wasn’t dancing’ scene, literally made me laugh more than any ‘comedy’ from the last few years