Maniac
Maniac

Movie spotlight

Maniac

2011
Movie
10 min
French

Short horror mockumentary about a camera crew that follows two serial killers.

Insights

IMDb5.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes57%
Metacritic50/100
Google Users64%
Director: Frank KhalfounGenres: Horror, Thriller, Crime

Plot Summary

Frank, the disturbed owner of a mannequin store, struggles with his crippling mental illness and his deadly urges to hunt and scalp women. He finds solace in draping his apartment with the hair of his victims, creating unsettling displays. His fragile reality begins to fracture further when he meets Anna, a captivating artist who could be his chance at redemption or his ultimate downfall. The film delves into the dark psyche of a serial killer, blurring the lines between fantasy and reality.

Critical Reception

The 2012 remake of 'Maniac' received polarized reviews, with many critics praising its intense atmosphere, graphic violence, and Elijah Wood's chilling performance as the titular character. However, its extreme brutality and disturbing themes were also points of contention, leading to divided opinions on its artistic merit and overall effectiveness.

What Reviewers Say

  • Elijah Wood delivers a disturbing and memorable performance as a deeply disturbed serial killer.

  • The film is praised for its unsettling atmosphere and graphic, visceral horror.

  • Critics are divided on whether the extreme violence serves the narrative or is gratuitous.

Google audience: Google users generally found the film to be a disturbing and intense horror experience, with many commending Elijah Wood's performance. However, some viewers found the graphic nature of the film to be excessive and difficult to watch, while others appreciated its unique and dark approach to the slasher genre.

Fun Fact

The film's makeup effects artist, Dan Martin, created over 100 hours of prosthetic work for Elijah Wood's character, including subtle but disturbing details meant to reflect the character's mental state.

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