Just a quick post while I try and finish this MJ issue.

I just watched Three... Extremes (yeah, I know. I really should be working) and thought I'd recommend it. For those of you not in the know, it's a collection of 3 short horror films from 3 uniquely gifted asian directors. Each clocks in at 40 minutes. It's horror, yes, but it hits the deeper psychological nerve more than the cheap thrill-bone.

I heard good things about it over the net and like everyone said, I wasn't disappointed. I personally liked Dumplings the best but loved the visual artistry of Takashi Miike's Box. Some of the wide snow scenes were breathtaking and serene and the retro carnival tent was sweet. I also liked that old kerosene heater towards the beginning of the film. I especially liked that they didn't over do it with showing the gore and various monsters a la Ring and Juon but, instead, resorted to subtle storytelling. Miike is known for being over-the-top and by toning it down made me appreciate his wider talents.

Dumplings reminded me of old Twilight Zone episodes where we're dropped into a slightly twisted world and watch as the train wreck runs it's course. The ending was, like, "Whaaaaaaa!??" You'll understand if you've watched it;) I gotta say, though, the cook was HAWT! Daaaaamn! Serious shwing-o-rama. All the chewing SFX added a nice touch. I wish they'd actually had the actress chew on something crunchy though. Woulda been nice to see her really workin' those dumplings.

The last of the three, Cut, was appropriately messed up. Not as cringe inducing as I expected. Much of the "cutting" was off screen. Of course, it helped focus my attention to the dilemma at hand and not the gore. A successful move in my opinion. Some nice twists and turns and deliberate humour is peppered in which was satisfying. I dunno. It didn't hit home like the others.

Anyway, if you make it to the theatre or find this gem online I suggest checking it out and expect a great horror alternative for the fright connoisseur.

Tak