The first time I watched In the Mouth of Madness I was thoroughly impressed. The whole viewing experience was unlike I had seen before since it involved me without really knowing what was going on. Back then it had me questioning reality and making me a little paranoid. Don't worry though it will fade soon after watching. Still I was wondering what I just had seen. Now after many years I know exactly what is going on.
The thing is if you are unfamiliar with H.P. Lovecraft and his work then yes this film very likely won't make sense to you. But if you are familiar then In the Mouth of Madness is a real treat. Actually as a psychological thriller it also ticks the right boxes. Only as a lovecraftian film it's infinitely better and one you can watch and enjoy over and over again. The film is filled with references and depictions of lovecraftian elements. It even downright states or explains of what is going on if you are paying attention enough. That being said if you really don't know anything about Lovecraft then most of what you will see will come across as weird and bizarre. Don't get me wrong, it actually is. However the mystery part won't be perceived as confusing or complicated. But make no mistake John Carpenter is a true master of horror and manages to be effective even after multiple viewings. And this is because In the Mouth of Madness is atmospheric horror. It only shows what it needs to show you. Plus it adds a lightness to the film probably to prevent you from being overwhelmed with it's darkness or dread.
John Carpenter also pays tribute to Stephen King as he borrows some elements from his work and has him represented in the film as Sutter Cane who also is based on H.P. Lovecraft. I don't know about you but for me that adds to the fun. And In the Mouth of Madness definitely is fun as much as coming doom and damnation allows of course.
As far as I am concerned this film is a classic through and through.
Also check:
No comments:
Post a Comment