What is it about the French that gives them the ability to turn out some of the most gut-wrenching, disturbing horror films these days? Their ability to deliver extreme, cringe-inducing horror is closing in on '70s-era Italian cannibal and zombie films, '80s American slashers, and late '90s-early '00s Japanese ghost stories. With these specialties from around the world, it should be quite easy to program a special "Horror 'Round the World" movie network. In any case, Martyrs is the latest example of twisted horror that I have seen, hot on the heels of Haute Tension, Inside, and Frontier(s) (and that doesn't even touch on dramas like Irreversible). What sets this apart from those other examples is the metaphysical aspect of the tale, but I am getting ahead of myself.

Four years ago I was introduced to the work of Pascal Laugier with his big screen screenwriting and directorial debut, House of Voices (released in France as Saint Ange). That supernatural ghost tale was a mediocre entry into the genre, and I cannot say I expected to see more from him. Now, along comes his followup film, Martyrs, and I have to admit that the jump in quality between his debut and sophomore efforts is similar to that of Rob Zombie from House of 1000 Corpses to The Devil's Rejects. In other words, it is considerable and very much welcome.

Martyrs opens with a young girl emerging from a building on the industrial side of town, bruised, bloody, barefoot, and screaming. The girl's name is Lucie and it she was held captive for an unknown period of time. She does not remember much of what happened, is not sure who did it, and does not trust anyone. That begins to change when she befriends Anna, another girl with a troubled past living in the same group home. Their friendship is sealed the day Anna sees Lucie cutting herself, only to have Anna say that it was someone else who did it. From this moment on, the two become inseparable friends.

Jump ahead fifteen years and meet a seemingly normal suburban family. They are getting ready to start their day when the doorbell rings. They answer the door and the woman on the outside proceeds to lay them down with a succession of shotgun blasts. It is Lucie.

Article Author: Chris Beaumont

Christopher Beaumont spends much of his time writing about music and movies when he isn't indulging in them. He is always ready to talk about his favorite form of entertainment and offer up recommendations. Follow: Twitter and Tumblr. Visit: Critical Outcast. …

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