Elle

I DID NOT LOVE IT, BUT IT WAS OK

From the description I expected something typical, but it was quite good and unexpected

What a sick, disturbing film this was! Everything about it bothered me...I only finished watching to see if there was some surprise ending that would make this strange story make sense, but NO there was no satisfying resolution. The main character was extremely unlikable as well. I wish so much that I had not watched this movie.

This story calls for a strong-minded, level-headed female lead and Huppert is perfect for it. Ive always loved her performance but it took me a long time to make up my mind to watch this one because of the subject matter. It did not disappoint. Like many French films and unlike most Hollywood films, it has a main plot line and many sub plot lines which are just as intriguing. In the first half hour, it unfolds so well about the relationships and dynamics among the characters involved without wasting scenes to explain, just enough to keep the suspense going but not too much to insult our intelligence. Obviously we are kept on our toes all the way to the end on the question of who did it, but for me its also about the personal struggle of finally breaking free from ones painful past and starting to move on with living. She is so fearful of reporting the assault to the police because she does not stir up the public attention of the past--there she continues to let the past influence her actions and rule her life. Spoiler alert: at one point there is a conclusion to her past (the passing of her father), after which she starts making different decisions...At the end of the day, this is a happy-ending story. Before watching it, I had vaguely remembered review words like controversial and thought maybe it had something to do with her attraction to the aggressor. After watching it I have to say her attraction to the aggressor (without knowing who it is at the time) precisely highlights the point for many rape victims in real life, that what constitutes a rape is without the consensus of the victim, regardless of how attractive the aggressor is. On the other hand, I thought what could be a bit controversial might be how she refuses to forgive her father (and her mother for that matter) even when they are on their deathbeds. Most movies would have them reconcile somehow, but this plot is more honest. I dont personally have such a painful past with my family to be able to directly relate but I hope this detail is validating and comforting to those who can relate, and that it is okay not to forgive those who did wrong to you, as long as this feeling empowers and liberates you, like it did her.

Excellent acting but a very dark cinema.

Ends just like a typical French movie, if you know about them, youll know.

It was entertaining although very strange actions by all of the characters - the ending just left me blank waiting on something to happen- my husband thought it was good everything was tied up for ending - he liked it better than I but I found it difficult to believe the craziness of the characters actions- even though he bought from my account I wouldnt advise anyone to rent for 5.99 maybe when it drops to 2.98

OK movie.

Very dark but very good!

Its a poor movie.