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| DIRECTED BY |
| Roman Polanski
|
| STARRING |
| Catherine Deneuve |
| Patrick Wymark |
| John Fraser |
| Ian Hendry |
| Yvonne Furneaux |
 |
This Roman Polanski film strikes me as more of an exaggeration than anything else, although its hyperbole isn�t completely implausible, I suppose. Polanski�s intention was obviously to explore the psychosexual repressions of a young virgin and the explosive, homicidal paroxysms that it may lead to. It�s commendable to even have the chutzpah to explore such esoteric territory (particularly in the mid-1960s,) but I just couldn�t buy into the whole deal.
Polanski�s direction is really unstable throughout the film � much of the camerawork is uneven, particularly during the murder scenes where we assume the victim�s perspective. This is an intriguing idea, but it�s also quite testing on the viewer. But then there are also moments of brilliant cinematography (my favorite being the lowering-ceiling shot when Carole is lying down,) coming mainly during the symbolism-heavy dream sequences.
If one interprets the film as a generalization of the sexual suppressions/aggressions of women and men, respectively, then �Repulsion� is borderline ridiculous. As an individual study of this one girl�s disturbed psyche, then it�s interesting. But it�s still a plodding and generally detached film; Polanski refuses to let you become sympathetic toward any of his characters other than, perhaps, the sociopathic Carole. Perhaps this is a brilliantly uncompromising decision, or perhaps it�s just pretentious. Take your pick.
