‘Raw’ (2017) Review:

I haven’t sat down and have a film affect me this much since the release of ‘BlacKkklansman’ in early August. From what I had heard about ‘Raw,’ I was not the most excited to sit down and watch it. Hearing that people had passed out while watching it at festivals, and others leaving due to being so appalled by it. I was immediately intrigued but also nervous. So, with one giant deep breathe, I delved into the world of ‘Raw,’ and as the credits rolled, I noticed hadn’t been more excited to discuss a film in quite a while.

As shocking as this film was, it was weirdly comforting. Following Justine through this gorey and horrific journey of self-discovery provided this odd style of comfort to the film. Even though it is her process of growing into a raging cannibal… I could still relate to her? The feelings I felt while watching this film confused me and concerned me… and that is why I think the film effected me as much as it did. As someone who is also going through the process of finding myself and learning, I felt myself in Justine’s shoes. (Besides the craving-human-flesh aspect… of course.)

The themes explored in ‘Raw’ such as growing, self-acceptance, and family, makes ‘Raw’ so much more than just a cannibal horror film. If you go into this film with this mind-set, you are only going to get so much out of it. If you try and forget about the whole cannibal aspect, this truly is just a story about two sisters trying to bond, compete, and survive the whole concept of “growing up.” Ducournau could have made a gorey and disgusting film that got society talking, but adding these plot points and character traits really changed the whole experience, and I admire her a lot for this.

Garance Marillier’s performance in ‘Raw’ was haunting and mesmerising. I found myself just sitting there and adoring her talent and she really knocked this role out of the park. She really is one to keep an eye on. Overall though, all of the performances were extremely well-done.

Julia Ducournau directed this movie in such a beautiful way. Every shot, every scene was so detailed and beautiful to look at. I quite often found myself not being able to tear my eyes away from the screen, even throughout some of the more “gorey” parts, and I think that’s why this film is so unique and amazing. Ducournau made the most vile concepts somewhat beautiful to watch. Whether this was through the colour, the camera angles, or the score (may I add that the main title for ‘Raw’ is absolutely haunting. Listen here) the entirety of this film was utterly hypnotising.

I am still in complete shock over this film and every time is crosses my mind, I find myself trying to unpack it and truly understand why it took such a toll on me. Maybe it was the graphic and confronting scenes. Maybe it’s the fact that I started to sympathise with Justine. Maybe it was because I related to this cannibal-coming-of-age-tale. Either way, ‘Raw’ is a film that will stay in your weeks after watching it.