I was really looking forward to this film, as the short story it's based on is one of King's classics, almost lovecraftian in its otherworldliness. Started off brilliantly, obviously director Mikael Hafstrom has been paying attention to the slow burn, anticipatory nature of Japanese horror. Cusack playing the embittered, alcoholic sceptic was an inspired bit of casting, as he was ideal for the role, pulling off what is essentially a one-man show. Unfortunately, like most Hollywood produced horror, it burns itself out just after halfway through, as if it doesn't know where to go. The wall-hugging sequence (obvious nod to Cat's eye) was inspired and then.. Dream sequence? Oh it was all a dream, NO, and I'm back in the room. Sorry, tired and lame there, if Bobby had walked out of the shower at that point I couldn't have cared less. The ending, well, COULD have been done so much better, if Enslin had died in the fire, allowing his wife to find the dictaphone and play back that message it would have been a fantastic ending, but, typical Hollywood, not allowing the protagonist to die for fear of upsetting people (I mean really, what could upset a horror fan?) In the story Enslin immolates himself to escape, the film gives him his wife back and a walking stick. So I'll give this one six skulls, and shame on Dimension for not having the guts to go with a decent, gritty, ending.
Reviews
2 Reviews
Ong-Bak: The Thai Warrior
(2003)
Fantastic, Jackie look out!
12 July 2004
This is definitely one of my favourite Thai films. It's good to see Muay Thai kickboxing getting a movie that shows how it SHOULD be done! Hysterically funny & touchingly sad in parts, nevertheless it is mainly an action film and pulls it off well. Van-Damme wouldn't stand a chance against this guy, and with a bit of money behind him he could be the Thais answer to Jackie Chan. Anyone who likes asian films should watch this, definitely a classic! It's interesting to see the way Thais view us farangs as well. Do we really come across as foul-mouthed giants, or machiavellien businessmen? Apparently we do, especially in this film anyway! I would say this and Iron ladies 2 are the best films to come out of Thailand in the past couple of years! Watch it!
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