Movies as Artwork: But Give Me More Time!

As I was watching Crimson Peak, I was reminded that movies aren't just about their stories; they are about their awe-inspiring sets, too. I'm quite ashamed to make this observation, as it's quite obvious when you think about it. Yet, somehow, I tend to forget this. I think the obsession with visual effects over the past few decades has shifted my appreciation for effects to story. And while I still believe story matters more, I also want to be fair when I evaluate movies for their attempts at trying something different with their visuals. 

Crimson Peak checks all of the right boxes for visuals. It's an escape we want to make ourselves, even when there is danger everywhere in the movie. 

I loved the visuals of the movie, yes. But what about the story? On its surface, the story should have also been a monument in film-making. We have an attempt to be original with a plot: a duo villain with clear, understandable motives. A female lead who's incredibly likeable. We should have everything we need as an audience. Right? 

Something's missing for me as a fan of horror movies--and movies in general. I think what I'm missing is enough time to get to know each character a bit more. The scenes move too quickly; the characters flash too quickly on the screen. I want to get to know them a bit more, especially our female protagonist. Don't get me wrong. I don't want to get to know them more in any particular boring scene. I want more exciting scenes centered on each character individually so that I can get to know them more.  

Sometimes too many movies forget that pacing is critical. Perhaps they could cut a few characters to ensure the pacing is correct. If audiences don't really get to know each character intimately, then what's the point? 

 

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