HIM

I watch cinema to feel a vastly different experience from the real world, having my mind altered by whatever the director has created, whether that's something insane or emotionally touching. This movie is exploding with artistic flair and unnerving, sometimes confusing imagery that I can't help but be impressed by. You get to see what the inner sanctum of fame is like, the levels that people go through to become the goat; everything has a price, and it can get beyond all levels of fucked up. It really makes you think about real athletes, their mentors, their families, and all the demonic forces that could be at play in their lives. I understand why people would call the story disjointed, because it really does jump around a lot once Cameron arrives at the compound, but to me that perfectly reflects what he as a character is going through with his head injury. When it reaches the climax things feel real, captivated by how things will get wrapped up, the choices that Cam will make when it really matters, and I wasn't disappointed. Marlon Wayans and Tyriq Withers deliver amazingly authentic performances, mirroring a coach and student dynamic where the levels of trust are constantly shifting. The cinematography is beautiful, disturbing, mesmerizing, trippy, making things feel grounded but also otherworldly. My only downside is that I wish it was just that bit longer to really flesh out the scenes. An unforgettable experience that keeps you on the edge of your seat thinking about how evil the industry is. So downright crazy. What are you willing to sacrifice.