"Muse" features one of the most shockingly unpredictable (that is, if you haven't read the plot synopsis beforehand) and intriguing opening scenes, as well as the most beautiful title-sequences I've seen in a long time. So, for what it's worth, after barely five minutes you can rest already assured you haven't wasted any time or money! But, even more impressive, "Muse" remains a fascinating and continuously surprising thriller/horror tale throughout its running time.
Finally, I'd almost say, we have another original, intellectually challenging, genuinely atmospheric, and captivating mystery tale. Scriptwriter/director Jaume Balagueró departs from a couple of familiar horror themes, like an emotionally tormented poet as the protagonist and visions in dreams that become grim reality, but after that nothing is routine or predictable anymore. I don't intend to reveal any plot details, partially because it's too convoluted but mainly because it's a sinister journey worth discovering for yourself. I read about comparisons between this film and Dario Argento's "Three Mothers"-trilogy, and I can relate to that, especially in terms of surreal morbidity and atmosphere.
It's a tense and uncanny puzzle that you'll want to resolve. However, every time you think the pieces start fitting together, a new and overwhelming twist hits you straight in the face. That is rare these days, to say the least. Elliot Cowan and particularly the stunning Romanian actress Ana Ularu are terrific leads, and it was nice to see former cult-queen Franka Potente in a significant role again as well. Creative cult-chameleon Christopher Lloyd has a brief but very memorable supportive role. To be totally honest, I used to think Balaguero was a very overrated director, but the older and matured version of myself guesses it's about time to give "Darkness" and "The Nameless" another fair chance.
Finally, I'd almost say, we have another original, intellectually challenging, genuinely atmospheric, and captivating mystery tale. Scriptwriter/director Jaume Balagueró departs from a couple of familiar horror themes, like an emotionally tormented poet as the protagonist and visions in dreams that become grim reality, but after that nothing is routine or predictable anymore. I don't intend to reveal any plot details, partially because it's too convoluted but mainly because it's a sinister journey worth discovering for yourself. I read about comparisons between this film and Dario Argento's "Three Mothers"-trilogy, and I can relate to that, especially in terms of surreal morbidity and atmosphere.
It's a tense and uncanny puzzle that you'll want to resolve. However, every time you think the pieces start fitting together, a new and overwhelming twist hits you straight in the face. That is rare these days, to say the least. Elliot Cowan and particularly the stunning Romanian actress Ana Ularu are terrific leads, and it was nice to see former cult-queen Franka Potente in a significant role again as well. Creative cult-chameleon Christopher Lloyd has a brief but very memorable supportive role. To be totally honest, I used to think Balaguero was a very overrated director, but the older and matured version of myself guesses it's about time to give "Darkness" and "The Nameless" another fair chance.