Weapons
So Close!
I probably do not even need to write a review of Weapons. It’s been crushing the box office for weeks now, so it seems like everyone has seen it.
I’m still going to offer my opinion because that’s what I do here. Even though it has been out for a while, I will not give any spoilers, which is going to make this difficult.
The movie has drawn a lot of comparisons to last year’s Longlegs. I think that’s fair. Both films marketed themselves on the premise that you had to go see the film to find out what was really going on. Both films also had well-known actors made basically unrecognizable in creepy makeup.
Unfortunately, both movies also have huge plot holes that took me out of the story and kept these films from reaching a level of iconic horror.
I do not need my films wrapped up in a nice bow, nor do I need everything explained to me. I accept going along for the ride, especially in the horror genre, involves suspending your disbelief of the ordinary world. In both films, I needed tiny adjustments to satisfy the logical side of my brain.
The ineptitude of the police plays a critical role in both storylines. The beginning narration of Weapons even points this out. In an era of complex police procedurals on television, it feels like an easy out that the police miss huge red flags. Longlegs is worse in this area than Weapons. Even though Weapons calls this out, certain points leave the viewer extremely frustrated.
There has also been some backlash that Weapons used “hagsploitation,” which exploits an older female as scary, wicked and unattractive in the most manipulative way. As an older woman myself, I was not offended. I actually felt the film exposed how our current society treats women of a certain age as if they are invisible, easily brushed aside and not listened to. It seems the lesson here may be to watch your ass!
Weapons held my interest and had some effective horror moments, but overall, I wish it could have delivered just a bit more so it could reach my upper echelon of great horror films.
Interesting take, I know what you mean about a film not quite making the mark. I often come away from otherwise great story lines feeling less than satisfied. I won't see this film, but not because of your review. Because I really don't like horror films -- or even thrillers. And the subject of this film is too close to home, especially now. You are brave and articulate! Not a bad combo.