Normally, when I write a review, I start off with an opening that gives the reader an overall idea of what the film contains visually and thematically. However, in this particular case that is a bit difficult to pull off since I still am not exactly sure what it is I watched. It was technically excellent, the script was brilliant at moments and confusing at others, and there was a deep anti-male theme throughout the entire film. In short, The Woman, directed by Lucky McKee and written by McKee and Jack Ketchum, is an enigma, impossible to fully comprehend and not for everyone. But if it catches your interest, you won’t be able to stop watching.
The plot of the movie is simple in theory, but the thematic nature of it is extremely complex. It begins when Chris (Sean Bridgers) captures a feral woman (Pollyanna McIntosh) and chains her up in his cellar, attempting to civilize her. Needless to say, it doesn’t go well, but not in the way one would expect. Chris and his son Brian (Zach Rand) are the true monsters of the film, at first merely displaying glee at the torture and captivity of the young woman. However, as the film progresses, their crimes get worse and worse, as allegations of rape (and an actual rape) come to the surface, as well as the torture and murder of multiple women. All the while the women of the family try to fight, but they are so racked by abuse at the hands of the men that it is almost impossible for them to retaliate. It is a powerful picture of familial abuse, and leads to many questions about the nature of monsters and gender roles. The “monster” in the woman is an animal, but the man and his son are true demons. The film shines when there aren’t any blood or guts, however, when the characters are exploring the nature of their inner pain, the script shows its brilliance, particularly in a climactic scene where Chris screams at his daughter while an innocent woman is tied up and about to be killed. Unfortunately the film loses something, oddly enough, when the horror aspect itself comes into play—the physical and graphic horror overloads the film, and thus gives the psychological horror of the film less emotional weight.
The acting helps to sell the best parts of the film. While everyone plays their part fantastically, Bridgers steals the show, so much so that you truly hate him for it. From the very beginning he is arrogant beyond belief, and the genuine kindness he appears to show is even creepier w
hen contrasted with the many horrid acts he performs throughout the film. Also helping the film is the incredible editing. The film contained montage after montage of footage, and superimposed images on top of images constantly, and the film looks wonderful as a result. Technically it is a masterful work.
However, the film itself may leave many disturbed and cold. There isn’t a single positive male figure, and there isn’t a single positive figure in the film, making the entire piece seem extremely bleak. Furthermore, the ending is extremely ambiguous thanks to a plot twist near the end that is far more “what the hell?” than “awesome!”. The first scene of the film also is extremely confusing, and may take a team of private investigators to figure out. The graphic violence may scare people off as well. At first I wasn’t sure about this film, but as I collected my thoughts I realized how much I liked it, despite its oddness. It won’t be for everyone, but if you want to see something extremely graphic, morally dubious, and extremely thought-provoking, this may just be the film for you.
Special Features: Nothing really special, though the short film is worth a watch. Other than that it’s just some deleted scenes and a “making of” featurette.
Film rating: If you can take it, it’s worth a watch (8/10)
Disc rating: 5/10
The Woman is available on blu-ray and DVD from Bloody Disgusting Selects
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