Three... Extremes (2004)

Well. While this is a very good movie, it is also for MATURE audiences only.

Okay, well first of all, I'll say this; there are three very different stories in this, all by different directors- so while you may be tempted to compare them (or look for connections, even) just let me advise you to not. I'll also advise you to let yourself be lost in each story, to fully experience and appreciate the mood and flair.

So, in my personal opinion;
Dumplings- This one is by far the most disturbing, in my opinion. It's predictable, but that doesn't make it any less chilling. The cast is quite good. Nothing too outstanding, but they all play their parts well. There's one character is particular- Aunt Mei- who is just brilliant. I think this one was my favourite out of the three, just because of the way that you become so completely engrossed by the story and the twists.

Cut- I was surprised to find out that Lee Byung Hun is in it, and as expected, he doesn't disappoint. This is a great segment, with a psychological battle taking place between a film director and his captor. This one is quite gruesome and shocking. The end can be interpreted in different ways, and I have seen people that disagree with me, so I recommend you watch it yourself and come to a conclusion.

Box- This one has a sort of dark appeal that I can't accurately describe with words. It pulls you in, and then confuses you, and then pulls you in again, and then confuses you again. But when you take a step back and think about all of the events and it as a whole, you realize the truth behind it. It's brilliant how it's done. The acting in this one was my favourite. It wasn't too subdued, and it wasn't too manic. It was simply perfect. This one is also the most reminiscent of horror films- which I wouldn't describe this entire film as.

In total, I was deeply engrossed by this film and it's story, and impressed by it's cast. The music was always fitting, but nothing too stupendous. I will not, however, rewatch this movie any time soon. Some of the shock value would be gone. (Not to say this movie doesn't have any merits beyond it's twists and turns- it's just something I look for in things.)
Overall, I highly recommend this intriguing artsy film.

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