MovieChat Forums > South of Heaven (2008) Discussion > Cinevegas World Premiere

Cinevegas World Premiere

posted 16 years ago by summit92-2
2 replies | jump to latest

Just saw SOUTH OF HEAVEN at Cinevegas today. This film was a great shot in the arm for independent film in the United States. While it definitely has its flaws, they are easily forgiven as SOH is the most unique film I've seen in years (this could become the new Eraserhead or Evil Dead.)

I thought the writing was jaw dropping in its unique cadence. The musical score was the most original sound I've heard since I saw BRICK at Sundance a few years back. The performance of Shea Whigham (GREAT in Wristcutters as well) as Mad Dog was the best fictional character I've seen since Omar Little in THE WIRE.

While I'm sure there will be people who don't find this their cup of tea (a mid-50's woman sitting 2 seats down from me vocally sounded off during the film about the extreme violence and made quite a scene as she stormed out of the theater) this film showed a brave attempt at indie cinema.

Congrats to J.L. Vara on this unique film. I'm excited to see what he does next.

[–] mongo-4 16 years ago

Agree that this might be a little too much for some, but the visuals and the performances for me make this a great addition to Cinevegas. Shea Whigham is unbeleivable.

I am going to try and see it again tonight 'cause I know there is more to get on the second viewing.

[–] herrwonko 16 years ago

I've never seen anything like it this movie. Vara draws from a list of utterly incompatible sources (Italian horror, old westerns, the Warren Beatty version of Dick Tracy) and spins them into something fascinating.

Not for the faint of heart; this is a violent, dark movie. The violence is made more jarring by the incongruous, clever humor. The score is perfect. The acting is perfect. The lighting is perfect. They all make up for some of the technical flaws, like awkward editing.

Definitely check this movie out if you get the chance.