I Spit On Your Grave

I will be the first to admit that I don't always have the stomach to watch the things that got me so excited about the horror genre only a few years ago.  I feel that the Saw series, while smart and fascinating, has gone overboard as of late, and I have never been a fan of the rape/torture porn films like Hostel.  But for some reason the same rules don't apply for I Spit On Your Grave, a unique remake of the 1978 cult hit Day of the Woman which tells the story of a rape victim seeking out revenge on her assessors.

I know, I know, it breaks one of my rules; however, there is no denying a good film when you see it and I can assure you that I Spit On Your Grave is nothing short of a spectacular film - for horror genre fans that is.

Sarah Butler inherits the responsibility of portraying Jennifer, a novelist who has rented out a cabin in hopes of finding some peace and quit  to tackle her next project.  But a seemingly innocent run-in at the gas station turns to one of brutal sexual violence as we witness a full fifteen minute rape scene involving our beloved Jennifer and five other men.  It is a terrifying moment really, the scariest of the film.  Watching it I cringed, longing for some sort of redemption.  I just had to be patient.

The final thirty minutes of the film is filled with a series of traps and gadgets that Jigsaw would find intimidating.  (I would reveal a few here but wouldn't dare ruin the experience for any of you.)  With nowhere to turn and a secret that lies in the pit of their gut, it is a pleasure to see the five men as they attempt to keep their cool and act as if nothing has happened.

Intermixed within the heavy dosage of violence lies a story of merit.  I can't say I expected much when I first walked into the theater, but after it was all said and done I must tip my hats to both the cast and crew.  The film is deep, intense and eye opening.  The acting is stellar, especially that of Butler, and I couldn't strip my eyes from the screen as I found myself infatuated with the current course of events.

I will say that I Spit On Your Grave is not for everyone.  It takes a very unique type of horror fan to appreciate and understand the story and meaning behind such a film.  It is set to hit theaters in an unrated form later this year and I can only hope that it will shine some light on the rated/unrated theatrical debate.  Until then, check this film out, it is smart, fresh and internally frightening.  This may be the best anti-sexual violence ad I have ever seen.