Read Positive User Reviews for Only God Forgives

10

alescio92Jul 19, 2013

Only God Forgives directed by Nicolas Winding Refn, an intense film, aesthetically perfect with beautiful colors, beautiful performances, a directorial no flaws, a wonderful movie, perfect, a beautiful soundtrack, not a fim suitable forOnly God Forgives directed by Nicolas Winding Refn, an intense film, aesthetically perfect with beautiful colors, beautiful performances, a directorial no flaws, a wonderful movie, perfect, a beautiful soundtrack, not a fim suitable for everyone though.
This is the real masterpiece of Refn.… Expand

21 of 34 users found this helpful2113

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10

JonDocJan 27, 2015

A divisive film. Love it or hate it. It's dream-like noir cinematography is undeniably masterly. Reminded me of the best movie moments from Martin Scorcese, David Lynch, Jonathan Glazer or Sergio Leone. What was most brilliant was it'sA divisive film. Love it or hate it. It's dream-like noir cinematography is undeniably masterly. Reminded me of the best movie moments from Martin Scorcese, David Lynch, Jonathan Glazer or Sergio Leone. What was most brilliant was it's narrative style - perfectly unfolding, revealing, enthralling, emotionally satisfying right until the last frame. Yes it is violent, but the violence always served the story. The main themes of ethics and retribution felt so right. Gosling played the perfect anti-hero and his nemesis Pansringham is one of the most compellingly bad-ass cops in movie history - horrific and honourable in equal measures. A masterpiece… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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7

grandpajoe6191Mar 9, 2016

A follow up to Nicholas Winding Refn's previous film "Drive", "Only God Forgives" is a aesthetically masterful and vivid film that has Julian, a notorious drug dealer in the Thai underworld played by Ryan Gosling, searching vengeance for hisA follow up to Nicholas Winding Refn's previous film "Drive", "Only God Forgives" is a aesthetically masterful and vivid film that has Julian, a notorious drug dealer in the Thai underworld played by Ryan Gosling, searching vengeance for his brother's death as he begins an ultra-violent journey of blood and tears throughout the film. Again, like "Drive", the editing and visuals of film, is unique and artistic, but once you peel off the covers there really isn't anything special, as a lack of explanation of the story or direction of how the film would cohesively flow really baffles the audience time to time. Overall, it's a good film but fails to reach its potential to become a great film.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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7

foxgroveAug 9, 2013

Nicholas Winding Refn is fast becoming a director whose singular style is ensuring that a film carrying his signature is a must see. His last film 'Drive' was a stylised exercise in concise and exciting story telling, great acting and visualsNicholas Winding Refn is fast becoming a director whose singular style is ensuring that a film carrying his signature is a must see. His last film 'Drive' was a stylised exercise in concise and exciting story telling, great acting and visuals at there cinematic best. Only God Forgives is an exercise in style for style's sake. This is not to dismiss it out of hand as I believe it to be a better film than most critics have suggested. The colour palette of the photography is very striking as is the art-direction. Performances are fantastic. In a role that is totally suited to him, Gosling is once again a commanding presence even with minimal dialogue. Kristin Scott Thomas excitingly cast against type is just a knockout. She plays the avenging mother with a ferocious tenacity that is worthy of Lady Macbeth.

As with Drive the wonderful score plays its part and here integrates itself into the success of the overall film better than does the dialogue. In fact it is the screenplay which is the film's weakest card. The slight plot is full of ambiguities and whilst the overall thrust of the film is hypnotic this has more to do with the acting and setting than the story itself. The film is in fact verbally challenged.
There is also much violence, some of which is gratuitous, and one scene in particular had me squirming in my seat. The conclusion, however, is refreshingly satisfactory.… Expand

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7

Meth-dudeJan 9, 2016

While not being as good as Drive,Only God Forgives is a unique noir,violent thriller.But, it is also a pretty confusing one.The acting was good and the violent scenes were well made.Clearly not a masterpiece but it still was a good movie.

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8

SushiStonerDec 17, 2014

The film has a captivating score and jaw dropping cinematography, this creates a memorable atmosphere and beautiful visuals. This film is a strange and obscure interpretation of vengeance very similar to Nicolas Winding Refn's previous filmsThe film has a captivating score and jaw dropping cinematography, this creates a memorable atmosphere and beautiful visuals. This film is a strange and obscure interpretation of vengeance very similar to Nicolas Winding Refn's previous films but that's where the critics went wrong.… Expand

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7

GrantD243Sep 3, 2018

Only God Forgives is not liked by a lot of people. I completely understand why people don't like it. It's slow, quiet, and as the viewer you're expected to put some of the pieces together and figure out what the film is really trying to say.Only God Forgives is not liked by a lot of people. I completely understand why people don't like it. It's slow, quiet, and as the viewer you're expected to put some of the pieces together and figure out what the film is really trying to say. Those three things are a recipe for disaster with most viewers. I'm a big fan of Refn's other film that has Ryan Gosling, Drive. And really, Drive and Only God Forgives are very similar in a lot of ways. The main difference here is that Drive dealt with a getaway driver who was obsessed with Hollywood and there were a couple of cool car scenes, while Only God Forgives takes place in Thailand, doesn't have any car chase scenes, and focuses on some bad people. But, they both have a similar color palette, quiet moments followed by brutal violence, and a quiet, violent man as the protagonist. Julian (Ryan Gosling) is the main "protagonist" and he's actually a drug dealer who has a brother who rapes an underaged girl. His brother is killed by the father of the girl, and Julian's mother wants him to avenge his brother despite what he did, and Julian doesn't want to do it. So his mother takes the quest for revenge into her own hands, while a sword-wielding law enforcement man, Chang, seeks to punish those responsible for the revenge murders. This is a very slow moving one hour and thirty minute film, but I found myself enthralled by it. The ending is a little anti-climatic and the real meaning of this film can be interpreted a few different ways, but overall I very much enjoyed this Only God Forgives, although it's not on the same level quality wise as Drive.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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9

come2whereiamAug 6, 2013

Fans of ‘Drive’ and even to a certain extent Ryan Gosling can look away now because this is Nicolas Winding Refn’s film. It is closer in tone to Valhalla Rising and he hasn’t pandered to the audience expectation, anyone expecting Drive 2 willFans of ‘Drive’ and even to a certain extent Ryan Gosling can look away now because this is Nicolas Winding Refn’s film. It is closer in tone to Valhalla Rising and he hasn’t pandered to the audience expectation, anyone expecting Drive 2 will probably be disappointed. Uber stylish, lavish colour palette, very few words and some graphic violence make this film feel like Terrence Malick meets ‘Enter The Void’. There is the odd clichéd frame but for the most part the cinematography is stunning and aided by the rich colours means the scenery and atmosphere are as much a part of the film as any of the main characters. Gosling, as Julian, only speaks seventeen lines in the whole film and what is lacking in dialogue is made up for in mood, the film is starkly tense, but his performance isn’t the strongest in the movie. That accolade is shared between Vithaya Pansringarm as Chang the sword wielding angel of death and in a completely out of character turn by Kristin Scott Thomas as Julian’s twisted, foul mouthed mother. You will have not seen her like this before and may not again; even Refn didn’t think she would agree after reading the expletive laden script. As with previous Refn films the music plays a big part and here Cliff Martinez’s score enhances the overall feel to great effect. Murder, prostitution, redemption, vengeance and the afore mentioned violence will certainly put some off, as will the seemingly lack of story, but if you are prepared to go with Refn’s vision you will be rewarded with one of the best films of the year.… Expand

4 of 5 users found this helpful41

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10

JoseAlfonsoSep 21, 2013

This film is dedicated to Alejandro Jodorowsky. To truly understand the nature of the film you must know the work of Alejandro first. It is a beautiful poem about Karma, God Destiny and Humanity. It is not for amusment or joy. Loved everyThis film is dedicated to Alejandro Jodorowsky. To truly understand the nature of the film you must know the work of Alejandro first. It is a beautiful poem about Karma, God Destiny and Humanity. It is not for amusment or joy. Loved every minute of the movie.… Expand

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9

nickyblazeJul 24, 2013

This film is truly a breath of fresh air in a world full of dense, over elaborated modern plots. The cinematography is by far the most gripping aspect, yet the characters run a close second. Not bogged down by dialogue, the characters areThis film is truly a breath of fresh air in a world full of dense, over elaborated modern plots. The cinematography is by far the most gripping aspect, yet the characters run a close second. Not bogged down by dialogue, the characters are actually able to express themselves and their respective code of ethics, or lack thereof, through there actions. Refn also has an uncanny ability to tell a story strictly through the use of visuals (which makes sense considering this is a motion picture after all).… Expand

3 of 4 users found this helpful31

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9

MuldersbroAug 19, 2013

This film reminds me rather a kaleidoscope, consisting of a pair of dim and bright colors, but not the art house. Does not mean that the film is bad. It simply is not for everyone.

3 of 4 users found this helpful31

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10

GFA_JOct 19, 2013

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I saw this film at Lincoln Center in NYC before it was released. I am a huge fan of Drive, but I heard this one would be different. I understand why some people didn't care for OGF, but I loved that they took it in the opposite direction of a typical revenge film. A macho protagonist that can't fight or take control of his situation was a fun and fascinating diversion. I think this film will eventually find its audience.… Expand

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8

himeegDec 19, 2013

This revenge tale is a little bit brutal and a little bit surreal. Director Nicolas Winding Refn and actor Ryan Gosling reunite for this visually dense look at the underbelly of Bangkok. Kristin Scott Thomas gives a perversely funny, asThis revenge tale is a little bit brutal and a little bit surreal. Director Nicolas Winding Refn and actor Ryan Gosling reunite for this visually dense look at the underbelly of Bangkok. Kristin Scott Thomas gives a perversely funny, as well as sad, portrayal of Billy and Julian's mother. However it is Thai actor Vithaya Pansringarm that steals the show. This film is eerie, atmospheric, ambiguous, stylish, sparse for me, every one of those describes a positive trait of the film. The critics may not love it, but I sure did!… Expand

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9

hillfingerhMar 31, 2014

This film creates a satanic and brutal world. It is unbelievably violent and disturbing but to create this 'evil' world, it might be necessary. Completely comprehensible why this film was criticized lot but positive that it needs moreThis film creates a satanic and brutal world. It is unbelievably violent and disturbing but to create this 'evil' world, it might be necessary. Completely comprehensible why this film was criticized lot but positive that it needs more attention and, if it's possible, respect for creating such piece.… Expand

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7

DelTorroAug 2, 2013

I really enjoyed the movie. It was nice to see something where the director had full control and visually its a stunning movie. I don't know if I could recommend based on the extreme violence and the dialogue made me cringe in some parts. itsI really enjoyed the movie. It was nice to see something where the director had full control and visually its a stunning movie. I don't know if I could recommend based on the extreme violence and the dialogue made me cringe in some parts. its certainly not for everyone, but that's it wasn't intended to be and that's not a bad thing.… Expand

4 of 6 users found this helpful42

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9

cnrcnrAug 4, 2013

I really really loved Only God Forgives. Winding-Refn is about the only director who is artistic, controversial and faithful to his own style Some viewers who watched Drive will be expecting to see a 'similar' sort of film, but only godI really really loved Only God Forgives. Winding-Refn is about the only director who is artistic, controversial and faithful to his own style Some viewers who watched Drive will be expecting to see a 'similar' sort of film, but only god forgives is much more violent, arty, sparse and well... Amazing. I can understand that some critics absolutely hated this film, but the fact there is hardly any dialogue makes the film much more atmospheric! The best performance comes from Kristen Scott Thomas, she is hilarious in a dark mess-up kind of way, with some brilliant lines within the film. Ryan Gosling's acting has always been of a high quality, but in Only God Forgives, his performance is much much more refined and silent (Literally!!, he only specks 22 lines in the whole film).
Only God Forgives deserves viewers with an open mind who love violence, aren't easily offended and simply LOVE art-house films...… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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8

JalalBlackMar 17, 2014

A great violent art film , and like most art films it starts up great and ends disappointing , but the good thing about this ending is that it only lasts a few seconds before the the ending credits. I really liked this film , a slow motionA great violent art film , and like most art films it starts up great and ends disappointing , but the good thing about this ending is that it only lasts a few seconds before the the ending credits. I really liked this film , a slow motion fight in dreamy colors . For fans of Takashi Miike and David Lynch… Expand

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10

ToxictedzJul 22, 2013

Its all about how you look at things. The reason why people have slain the movie is because they all expect it and watch it from a perspective and in a way that movies are typically shown, like for instance, Hollywood blockbusters and Drive.Its all about how you look at things. The reason why people have slain the movie is because they all expect it and watch it from a perspective and in a way that movies are typically shown, like for instance, Hollywood blockbusters and Drive. This movie though breaks all the rules of cinema and delivers fresh, original, brutal, beautiful content that makes a new standard in movies. Its like a puzzle at you must solve yourself. People has seen this movie and take it as another average arthouse failure flick. Well if you dont take the movie for granted. And go beyond the details, and try to put the puzzle pieces together, you will find a more complex and a more realistic and fantastic brutal story. People that rate this movie bellow 7 and says this movie failed, has failed themselves.… Expand

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8

AllenReviewsMar 28, 2014

Only god forgives is undoubtedly a very underrated film, Its beautifully shot, Very well acted and wonderfully directed, My only problems is that the gore just doesn't fit and just doesn't work, Though overall Only god forgives is a very wellOnly god forgives is undoubtedly a very underrated film, Its beautifully shot, Very well acted and wonderfully directed, My only problems is that the gore just doesn't fit and just doesn't work, Though overall Only god forgives is a very well done film.… Expand

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8

ilyasskhApr 8, 2014

nicolas winding refn now is a complete director , a director who will say his own word in future !
let us just hope that gosling's and refn's riap continue in more collaborations.

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10

JLeighJun 25, 2015

A film of unimaginable beauty, depth and elegance, this may be NWR's masterpiece. No shot is anything other than totally considered, every decision has layers of meaning that gift the spectator a dark fairytale if they are willing to workA film of unimaginable beauty, depth and elegance, this may be NWR's masterpiece. No shot is anything other than totally considered, every decision has layers of meaning that gift the spectator a dark fairytale if they are willing to work with the text. The violence is unflinching, the lighting is photographic and the narrative is haunting. Read Peter Bradshaw's review.… Expand

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10

delete013Oct 15, 2015

I suppose I should expect such reaction from the "critics", but to call the film senseless cruel and boring just because they DIDN'T UNDERSTAND it is awkward. Althought implicitly, the film has enough obvious references that only require aI suppose I should expect such reaction from the "critics", but to call the film senseless cruel and boring just because they DIDN'T UNDERSTAND it is awkward. Althought implicitly, the film has enough obvious references that only require a little time to think.

For those who fear the movie is too grim and dark, I have good news, it has a happy ending.… Expand

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8

theSwayzetrainJul 21, 2013

If you are going into this movie thinking it's going to be like Drive well get that out of your head. Only God forgives is way different film first off cinematography and lighting are absolutely beautiful. So if you like that this will lookIf you are going into this movie thinking it's going to be like Drive well get that out of your head. Only God forgives is way different film first off cinematography and lighting are absolutely beautiful. So if you like that this will look like art to you Only God forgives is a dark story that will play with your mind. The cast give great performances and as your watching the film it has a great soundtrack just like Drive had. So if your looking for a different type of movie and one that's bit strange this is it.… Expand

5 of 8 users found this helpful53

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9

scoleyAug 15, 2013

Brilliant film i just think people don't get it so the give it a poor score but i really enjoyed it the cinematography and soundtrack were great Ryan Gosling was very good and you are on the edge of your seat for the whole film whats not toBrilliant film i just think people don't get it so the give it a poor score but i really enjoyed it the cinematography and soundtrack were great Ryan Gosling was very good and you are on the edge of your seat for the whole film whats not to like well worth a watch.… Expand

3 of 5 users found this helpful32

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9

ClayMerrittJul 24, 2013

I found this movie as a piece of art, more than a traditional film. Sure, its increasingly violent, but that adds to the intensity of the film. It was a joy to watch, and I could totally understand why critics don't like it. There wasn't aI found this movie as a piece of art, more than a traditional film. Sure, its increasingly violent, but that adds to the intensity of the film. It was a joy to watch, and I could totally understand why critics don't like it. There wasn't a lot of dialogue, but the dialogue given was the right amount needed to tell the story. Sure, its not for everyone, and it does have its flaws, but its a wonderfully beautiful film to watch. Beyond the story. The ending was weird, but besides this, I recommend it.… Expand

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9

LannisterGoldJul 21, 2013

i am honestly shocked that this movie was almost unilaterally slammed by critics. i read the screenplay and i thought it was a great story w incredible potential, not to mention that drive is among my favorite movies of the last decade.i am honestly shocked that this movie was almost unilaterally slammed by critics. i read the screenplay and i thought it was a great story w incredible potential, not to mention that drive is among my favorite movies of the last decade. having read most of the early reviews i went into the movie expecting it to suck. not the case. maybe i loved it because i read the screenplay and had a little more backstory to work with. whatever the case, i thought it was awesome.… Expand

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10

johntoddJul 23, 2013

Absolutely brilliant. Masterful directing and lighting. Symbolical dream scenes and slow atmosphere give a movie another meaning. Kristin Scott Thomas was absouletely amazing in her role and also Vithaya Pansringarm. It is great, go see it,Absolutely brilliant. Masterful directing and lighting. Symbolical dream scenes and slow atmosphere give a movie another meaning. Kristin Scott Thomas was absouletely amazing in her role and also Vithaya Pansringarm. It is great, go see it, love it. Only reason I can think why it`s under a such a heat is because of it`s subliminal political subplot that is very sensitive topic for Americans.… Expand

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7

OneSamTwoCupsJul 20, 2013

Only God Forgives is certainly not the movie that it was made out to be at the Cannes festival, but it also delivers some disappointing punches that don't live up to expectations. Refn's lastest effort proves to be a strong-but-weak film,Only God Forgives is certainly not the movie that it was made out to be at the Cannes festival, but it also delivers some disappointing punches that don't live up to expectations. Refn's lastest effort proves to be a strong-but-weak film, almost clinching at what he was trying to say with the film but not quite making it clear. Gosling's silent-psycho act along with Kristen Scott-Thomas's act make this film quite enjoyable, along with a riveting soundtrack and amazing visuals. Where the film delivers in characters, sound, and visuals, also comes with a sub-par script and billions of plot holes. Only God Forgives will deliver to all die hard Refn fans, but mainstream audiences will try to burn this one at the stake.… Expand

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10

Simple1DEAJul 20, 2013

Nicolas Winding Refn’s newest film is a biblical epic reminiscent of the Old Testament but set in modern Bangkok, Thailand. It roots as traditional Crime Thriller that journeys into a story of wrath, vengeance and chaos when clashing two MuayNicolas Winding Refn’s newest film is a biblical epic reminiscent of the Old Testament but set in modern Bangkok, Thailand. It roots as traditional Crime Thriller that journeys into a story of wrath, vengeance and chaos when clashing two Muay Thai ‘warriors’ into a climatic fight.

The film is almost empty of any dialogue but is full of religious metaphors and sexual symbolism. Cliff Martinez perfectly blends eastern-oriental and deep electronic sounds into the amazing score. The sound of loud church organs heightens the intensity and really makes it feel like religious icons are present. Every frame and every scene is executed beautifully and the Once Upon a Time in the West-like pace just made it that much more intense.

The film holds a set of ruthless and extreme ‘heightened reality’ characters which provide the biggest impact in the overall experience of the film. We see men insanely murder innocents, lash out with rage and attempt to restore balance through interesting uses of sharp objects. In her own extreme, Crystal (played by Kristin Scott Thomas) is very explicit in her words and also provides most of the dialogue. Her performance is amazing and may be the audience’s favourite.

This is a very very intense violent film which had me on the edge of my seat. Like the title suggests it is a film about redemption and spiritual relief within the antagonist and the world around him. I was very much relieved and satisfied by the time the film ended. It does test the audience’s limits and offer both a thought provoking and immersive experience and may be Nicolas Winding Refn’s most well crafted and artistic work yet.… Expand

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10

daebonerJul 21, 2013

This is clearly a controversial film. When I saw it, half the theater walked out and the other half gave it a standing ovation and stayed through the end of the credits.

I think that if you treat the world Refn has created as its own selfThis is clearly a controversial film. When I saw it, half the theater walked out and the other half gave it a standing ovation and stayed through the end of the credits.

I think that if you treat the world Refn has created as its own self contained universe, whose characters are doomed to repeat their lives in perpetuity, you can begin to understand how to approach Only God Forgives, a stunning, horrible, disgusting, flawless, self-indulgent masterpiece.… Expand

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10

cliffordcanJul 22, 2013

Wow! This is dramatic. I just saw this movie last night with a group of 8 total. All they knew was Ryan Gosling & the director of Drive were back. 2 of them downright hated it, 2 didn't care for it, 2 loved the cinematography, & 2 (includingWow! This is dramatic. I just saw this movie last night with a group of 8 total. All they knew was Ryan Gosling & the director of Drive were back. 2 of them downright hated it, 2 didn't care for it, 2 loved the cinematography, & 2 (including me) loved it. I thought it was an awesome experience. I say experience because this is not your average Hollywood spoon-fed movie. You have to think. I loved that the director played with all of my preconceived notions. I think this this movie plays more on the viewer's experiences than the movie plays itself. Find your smartest, most cultured friend who knows how to think for him/herself and watch this movie. You may regret it, but at least this movie made you feel something, which is more than I can say for 90% of the movies out there.… Expand

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7

rocketpackpandaJul 19, 2013

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. So, Only God Forgives, that was...ugh...ya? In all honesty though, if it hadn't been for the english dialogue and a rough ending (the 2nd draft of the script has the better ending), this would've been a masterpeice. If all you have seen from Refn is Drive, dont bother watching this until you have at least watched Bronson or Valhalla Rising. This film is more akin to those than Drive. This film can be majestic at times and devastatingly hallow at the same instance. ToKristin Scott Thomas and Vaaraj... Sorry great actor dude, these two give wonderful performances. Like most of the rest of the film, silence and body movement is key. The words mean nothing, but the movement of the bodies is whtat is the true delivery. Add that to the excellent, ne, stunning art design and cinematography and you have the prettiest film of the year. The look is like a canvas touched by a master. All this said, the picture is not perfect, but comparing it to drive is not quite right, it is more in the league of Valhalla Rising. The problem may be with the cut which was released (thats my bet) but in any case, it seems that several glaring faults damage this work. Even with its beauty it still seems confused as too its nature. The dialogue sounds tilted and forced, but the movement seems natural and poetic. This dichotemy pulls you from the film, into analysis mode, which does more damage than good, which is the opposite of what Valhalla did (minimalize dialogue to the point where you're watching a kinetic painting). Furthermore, the further we get through the film, the more disjointed it becomes. That said the film will be a delight for any fans of Refn. Twisted, surreal, artsy fartsy and experimental. Any fan of Refn will love this, anyone who is a fan of stylish films will love this.… Expand

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7

5hassayJul 23, 2013

After watching the movie once, I either feel like the movie kind of failed or I didn't really get it. My interest in this movie was from watching Drive, but this movie wasn't like Drive. Talking about this movie... I loved the soundtrack. ItAfter watching the movie once, I either feel like the movie kind of failed or I didn't really get it. My interest in this movie was from watching Drive, but this movie wasn't like Drive. Talking about this movie... I loved the soundtrack. It was fantastic (like Drive's). Also I really enjoyed the cinematography: Lot's of colours, cool shots and angles, et cetera. The story and progression is what bothers me. I just felt like there wasn't much substance at all in the movie--however I am reading from other viewers that this movie purposely had this kind of effect so the viewer can "figure out the details" themselves. I'm thinking I am going to watch the movie again sometime in the future and see if I can pick up on things I might have missed. But at the moment I don't know if I can really recommend the film. I don't think I'm a fan of movies where the majority of the content is something I have to figure out, if this movie happens to be one of those. Then again, this might be my first encounter with such a movie.… Expand

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8

TheJaegersJul 20, 2013

Only God Forgives B

It is kinda a tough one to crack. I'm still trying to make head or tails of the experience, but it's definitely not as bad as the critics claim that's for sure. It's a peculiar beast, and even amongst Refn's curiousOnly God Forgives B

It is kinda a tough one to crack. I'm still trying to make head or tails of the experience, but it's definitely not as bad as the critics claim that's for sure. It's a peculiar beast, and even amongst Refn's curious filmography.

I couldn't help but feel it's an amped-up version of Drive though. It was shot, paced, and acted almost similarly. It is pretty much the worst movie for any Refn newbie to get into. But any Refn fan would feel right at home and i have a hard time thinking any Drive fan would be letdown. This movie ain't a flop like Fear X.

I admit Refn kinda got a little carried away. He indulged too much in slow motion the movie felt sluggish at parts and if you think the Driver is too quiet in Drive then think again because that movie is like Glengarry Glen Ross compared to this one. The acting (Though i wouldn't say anybody actually acted in the movie) was ok at most part with Vithaya Pansringram becoming the surprising standout.

Beyond those nitpicks as well as the questionable ending i didn't have much of a problem with the pic and actually the movie looked way prettier than Drive. All the stylish shots in Drive also worked wonders.

All in all i wouldn't lie to say Refn could have made a better follow-up but this entry is still a worthy one. Have no worries guys.… Expand

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10

MrThehammer171Feb 7, 2015

this movie is just so amazingly shot the lighting and the score i just cant get enough of this movie. the acting is top notch ryan gosling gives a outstanding performance. people say he doesn't say enough well he doesnt you can see and feelthis movie is just so amazingly shot the lighting and the score i just cant get enough of this movie. the acting is top notch ryan gosling gives a outstanding performance. people say he doesn't say enough well he doesnt you can see and feel what he is thinking just by looking at him and that just shows how amazing of a job ryan gosling did… Expand

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10

sonofosamadamsJul 19, 2013

Eye popping, original, haunting and just scary, Only God Forgives is the best movie of 2013. After hearing so much about this movie from the negative reviews left and right and how violent it was, I sat down, relaxed and prepared myself.Eye popping, original, haunting and just scary, Only God Forgives is the best movie of 2013. After hearing so much about this movie from the negative reviews left and right and how violent it was, I sat down, relaxed and prepared myself. First off, i will say two things about this film-its not as violent as the critics have hyped it up to being, (even though its still brutal) and is definitely, definitely not for everyone. This is arthouse filmmaking at its best. Nicholas Refn is a brilliant film director. The way he conveys a story on a silver screen canvas is so haunting and irresistible that you find yourself guessing the movie after its done. I was extremely excited for this movie, then the reviews lowered my expectations a bit. Then i saw the movie. The cinematography is so beautiful; state of the art. I think the critics were expecting something like Drive; neo noir with a lot of sleezy gangsters doing dirty deeds in dirty alley ways. They weren't expecting a slow haunting thriller about a gangster trying to cope with his lifestyle. I can understand this film getting C's, and even D's, but F's? From professional movie critics? Give me a break. This year has been plagued with unfair reviews from those cheeseballs. This is one of them. They say that this film is confusing, and to that I say This film is simple enough if you turn your brain on (something critics and audiences tend to avoid when going into most movies nowadays) Some said the Asian actor who portrays Chang (a ruthless, psycho cop who unlawfully tortures criminals to satisfy his own needs) but really its about Julian (Ryan Gosling) throughout the film we see several dream and other types of hallucinations from Julian as he is haunted by this stranger, who we later know as Chang. But thats part of the story. The movie treads ground on how terrible parenting can lead to a life of darkness and emptiness. Above all, Kristen Scott Thomas steals the show. Her performance of the wicked, self indulged mother of Julian sent chills down my spine. She dominated every scene that she was in. When I watched the Schmoesknow review on this movie, they said you know nothing about these characters. Its funny since they call themselves film lovers and they don't even pay attention to whats in front of their eyes. If you pay carefull attention to this film, you realize all the scenes that involve the characters introductions beautifully tell us their story without leaving one line of dialogue on the screen. Filmgoers nowadays are so used to flashbacks and word-of-mouth stories that they expect that with every movie they go and see. But Only God Forgives has the balls do something a little different. It takes a different, more haunting approach to telling the character's story through their slow actions rather than conversations. This is a slow, quiet and chilling movie. I would almost call it surrealist in a way. The last half hour is extremely thrilling, but not in a pulse-pounding action sense; its more chilling as if you don't know where the film will leave you, and that right there is a true mark of a great movie. I say go see it, but i don't recommend it; its not for everybody. You'll either leave the movie as I did, or join the majority of the critics in neon hell.… Expand

5 of 11 users found this helpful56

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8

BrianMcCriticJul 20, 2013

Going into this film I was excited and after watching the film I really enjoyed it. Ok it wasn't Drive and there were times where the movie dragged, but with that being said this film is visually the best film I've seen all year and CliffGoing into this film I was excited and after watching the film I really enjoyed it. Ok it wasn't Drive and there were times where the movie dragged, but with that being said this film is visually the best film I've seen all year and Cliff Martinez's score is pitch perfect. To me the standout performances are from the gentleman who played Chang and Kristen Scott Thomas. Overall this is a film that will make you think for awhile after it is over. A-… Expand

2 of 5 users found this helpful23

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7

TyranianFeb 13, 2020

Another fairly mesmerising film from Nicolas Winding Refn, this guy has got some serious skills.