Hostel — Film Review
Often, horror movies have to tiptoe an imaginary line between horror and repulsiveness. Is there such a thing as going too far? Many torture films look to shock and create a sense of hopelessness, but if the viewer cannot even look at the screen due to how graphic it is, what is it achieving? While many new torture films go so far past that line you cannot even see the line, Hostel does a delicate dance right where the viewer wants it.
The story begins with two college students, Paxton (Jay Hernandez) and Josh (Derek Richardson), backpacking through Europe. Along the way, they meet an Icelandic friend, Óli (Eyþór Guðjónsson). The viewer is privy to the common hormonal issues of young college boys. This results in some stupid decisions by them, but who has not made a stupid decision when intoxicated or “in love”? Everything in Europe is about drugs or sex for them, which is cliché, but it is also hilarious along the way. Quick one-liners and the exploits of Óli make the film’s beginning not only funny but also emotionally engaging. You learn to love Paxton and especially Josh, who struggles with the concept of having sex with everything that moves. The trio is eventually roped into traveling to Slovakia, where the most beautiful women can be found. All hell breaks loose thanks to manipulation and well-thought-out plans.
Thank God the beginning of the film was engaging because it has a plodding pace. This is one of those films…
