DRAG ME TO HELL
RYAN: “Drag Me to Hell” is a new horror film from director Sam Raimi who is most widely known for directing the “Spider-Man” movies.
CAROLINE: I didn’t get to see it with you, and I must say I’m sort of relieved. I can’t really stomach these horror movies. Was it super scary?
RYAN: Actually, yes. In fact, I’d go so far as to say it’s this decade’s “Exorcist.”
CAROLINE: Gasp! Was there a head spinning around moment and everything?
RYAN: No, but there are some horrific images that are sure to become iconic.
CAROLINE: Yikes. Do you think I would have been terrified?
RYAN: Yes, as was I, for at least the first half of the movie. Then at some point it kind of jumped the shark and became less scary. Also, I appreciated that some scenes were written as intentionally funny because that way the audience could get their laughter out at the appropriate time. There’s nothing worse than inappropriate laughter during a horror movie.
CAROLINE: Yes, I hate that. How’s Alison Lohman?
RYAN: She’s fantastic and I really don’t know why we haven’t seen her in more movies. Her performance is so not the cliché screaming girl; she hits interesting notes throughout. Justin Long plays her boyfriend, and he’s fine except for one scene where Alison’s typing away on a Mac, and I couldn’t help but think to myself, “Wonder how they got that product placement deal?”
CAROLINE: [laughs’ I love it. What about the creepy old lady? She’s freaky.
RYAN: She’s in it way more than anyone wanted to see her, and it’s just one disgusting thing to look at after the next with her.
CAROLINE: Ewwwww!
RYAN: The most disturbing aspect of the horror effects in this film was that almost all of it is focused on Ali Lohman’s mouth. There was all kinds of vomiting and other disgusting stuff. I strongly suggest not eating right before or during this movie.
CAROLINE: Blech! I can’t even stand to hear about it. I’m so glad I couldn’t make the screening. I like a scary movie every now and then, but this one sounds just gross.
RYAN: It really is the scariest movie I’ve seen in recent memory. I could have done without some of the grossness, but I’m glad it wasn’t cheesy and cliché the way most horror movies are these days.
— BOTTOM LINE —
RYAN: It’s truly a frightening film from beginning to almost end. Of special note is the sound design and editing. I think people will be talking about this movie for some time to come. If you want to be truly scared during a movie, this is the one to see.
CAROLINE: Thank you very much for seeing it without me.
— RATING —
