Anguish (1987)
AKA: Angustia; Angoixa
Directed by: Bigas Luna
Starring: Michael Lerner (John Pressman), Zelda Rubinstein (Mother), Talia Paul (Patty), Clara Pastor (Linda), Angel Jove (2nd Killer)
Country: Spain
Language: English
Runtime: 01:24:34
Genres: Gruesome, Small Animals, Mass Killings, Family
Plot – Spoilers:
John Pressman lives with his mother along with a large number of birds and snails and is regularly hypnotized by her. He works as some sort of assistant to an ophthalmologist, though his mother regards him as a fine surgeon. What he’s good at though is cutting out the eyes of people and bringing them home to mother.
At this point there’s an entertaining twist to the movie that turns again during the credits at the end. A very enjoyable work from the Spanish master.
Found myself getting extremely annoyed with the stupidity of a lot of the characters. (I’ll try not to ruin anything but) For instance; there’s a scene where the police need to be called and the character could’ve used the phone inside the establishment they are in but instead runs outside to look for a payphone on the street. Also, the police takes what seems like half a fucking hour to get there. I get people in 80’s horror films are not the brightest and this leads to them getting murdered, but goddamn; these motherfuckers were fucking idiots. Very frustrating film to watch and nothing gets resolved, I guess the gore is cool though. 3/10 lol don’t even waste your time.
My sole purpose in writing this comment is to let you know that Lalo is a moron. If what you take from this film is “the gore is cool” (which is sparse), you don’t deserve to watch this movie. Ignore his immature opinion. By the way, the “payphone” call is justified and serves its purpose.
Anyway, the discussion and introspection this movie inspires is greater than the work itself. That being said, Anguish is an interesting, engrossing meta experiment that does something like putting An Andalusian Dog, Persona, Psycho, and Demons into a blender, and then pouring that concoction onto the audience. And who is the audience?
Plus, its worth watching for the creepy charm of Michael Lerner.
dont know what to make of this film, left me confused and bored…
This is a silly comedy. It’s a big budget, well made, Hollywood comedy that is actually hilarious. I burst out laughing a few times. When his mother stepped on the snail I almost pissed my pants laughing. It’s worth a watch. Thanks EUM – I’ve watch almost every movie on here (sad, but true – how’s my life?) and there are many incredible movies here that I would have never known about if it wasn’t for you guys. I love, love, love EUM!! You guys are the best!!!!
zelda was not any good, stick to chasing poltigoosts, a nasty pervy granny