Scream Bloody Entertainment

A film by Hélène Cattet & Bruno Forzani.

A woman's erotic development is explored through three different moments in her life.

- unique visual style
- unconventional narrative
- sound editing and design
- open for interpretation
- powerful character study achieved without the use of dialogue
- the first segment is truly outstanding

- drags during the second half
- the final segment is not as effective as its predecessors
- some of it makes no sense, no matter how you spin it
- not for everyone

- creepy woman in black
- dead grandpa
- killer on the loose
- knife cuts

- some people like having broken glass under their bed
- motorcycle gangs are made up of horny bastards (surprise!)
- taxi rides can be pretty awesome

Amer may be one of the strangest horror films in recent years, making for a dreamlike experience devoid of dialogue and filled with hauntingly beautiful visuals. Its style, reminiscent of 70s giallo films, fits the mood and tone of the storyline perfectly, and the mesmerizing mix of sounds that adorn each scene are yet another plus. However, Amer falls a little short in the narrative department, failing to create a coherent whole, thus providing little closure in the end. In addition, the film drags quite a bit during its second half, almost as if the filmmakers ran out of ideas. Nevertheless, Amer remains a thoroughly intriguing ride for those able to appreciate (and put themselves through) more artistic and experimental pictures. There's not much to be had here for everyone else, though.

horror meter: 3 carnal stars (out of 5)