Synopsis
Franju's tormented and controversial masterpiece, the artistic sensation of Paris and London for 3 years, at last presented in America. It is a film of savage honesty and violent visual impact, and was the Prix Jean Vigo and Grand Prix winner at the International Film Festival, France 1950. Franju simply turns his camera on the men and beasts that comprise this vital act of daily killing. If you are not used to this sort of thing, you feel an urge to turn away from some of the scenes. But it is amazing how soon the feeling passes if you only try to realise how artificial it is, a mere matter of custom and an over-protected environment. (Paul CRONIN)