“In a Violent Nature” (2024) presents a unique take on the slasher genre by showcasing the killer’s perspective. But is this perspective suitable for all audiences? This parent’s guide delves into the film’s content to help you decide if it’s right for you and your family.
The film follows the conventions of the slasher genre but shifts the focus from the victims to the villain. Characters’ interactions become fragmented, overheard pieces of a narrative where they are unaware of their roles. The film’s grounded aesthetic and deliberate pacing create a sense of realism, making the violence more impactful and unsettling. The film’s capacity for unsettling violence makes the madman at its core more frightening.
One defining characteristic of the film is its uncompromising nature. It maintains its vision regardless of audience acceptance. Its slow pace is used to build dread, forcing viewers to share the space with the killer. The shockingly brutal violence is presented in long takes, emphasizing its barbarity. Practical effects are seamlessly integrated with wide shots, enhancing the realism of each kill. This reduces the disconnect between real and movie violence, creating a more horrific experience.
However, the film struggles with consistency. It deviates from its established patterns, leading to questions about its choices. The absence of non-diegetic music, the delayed reveal of the killer’s face, and the abrupt changes in camera angles disrupt the viewing experience.
The final act shifts perspective to the final girl, undermining the film’s core concept. It becomes more conventional, with dialogue-heavy scenes and an unsatisfying subversion. This transition diminishes the film’s impact, making the ending feel weak and anticlimactic.
Other issues include questionable decisions by some characters and repetitive framing of the action. Additionally, the film’s claim of putting the audience “in the killer’s perspective” is somewhat misleading, as it maintains a distance from his thoughts and motivations.
Despite its flaws, “In a Violent Nature” offers a unique and experimental take on the slasher genre. Its commitment to its concept and seamless violence make it a worthwhile experience for genre fans.
The film’s unwavering vision also leads to drawbacks. Its slow pace and repetitive nature may cause viewers to lose interest. The film’s strengths also contribute to its weaknesses.
Ultimately, the film doesn’t fully deliver on its promises. While it showcases unsettling violence, it lacks depth and consistency.
The ending detracts from the overall impact. The final girl sequence feels out of place and unsatisfying, diminishing the film’s effectiveness.
In conclusion, “In a Violent Nature” is a flawed but interesting experimental horror film. Its unique perspective and seamless violence make it worth watching for fans of the genre. However, parents should be aware of its graphic content and unsettling nature before allowing younger viewers to watch. Consider the film’s violence and disturbing themes when deciding if it’s appropriate for your family.
