This critically acclaimed French film won the Grand Prize (Silver) at the
Catalonian Film Festival for Best European Fantasy Film, but does it
live up to it’s reputation?
Five young actors are hired to perform their controversial take on Little
Red Riding Hood for eccentric millionaire Axel de Fersen and his autistic
Grandson at his Chateau deep in the woods. As if that wasn’t bad enough a
serial rapist/murderer is on the loose.
This film showcases some of the best scenery and locations I have ever
seen in foreign cinema, and these are not the only good points. Right
from the start the film uses some wonderful cinematography and fantastic
sound design.
Besides the aesthetics, the young cast are great at playing jealous rivals
with big egos whilst appearing to be the best of friends, and the
supporting characters also do a great job in making you question whether
they are good or bad.
From start to finish we are shown many disturbing and alarming images, and
the effects work is flawless in the gory death sequences. By far the best
scene however, is the first time we see the killer – it is absoloutely
chilling!
The film also shows strength in it’s few humorous moments from the
performance of Red Riding Hood to Axel de Fersen’s letcherous advances to
one of the characters (which at the same time unsettles the viewer).
OVERALL SUMMARY
European horror is at an all time high right now and with entries like
this it is no surprise. Deep in the Woods is a beautifully shot,
brilliantly acted piece of film-making, with brilliant use of fairytale
imagery. The ending is somewhat confusing but doesn’t ruin the overall
effects of the film.
