Read Positive User Reviews for Tusk

8

ToFewViewsDec 4, 2014

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. For those of you who enjoy Kevin Smith, as a writer, director, comedian, pot smoker, or just a fat guy, this is the movie for you to watch. If you don't, then this may not be the movie for you, because this is about as Kevin Smith as it gets. If you have no idea where you stand, then watching this movie is certainly what you should do.
I'm going to be straight with you, this is not a movie for the feint of heart, so if you're on your Disney Frozen bs then DO NOT watch this twisted flick. Tusk is in the horror/comedy section of Smith's work, done similarly to Red State(2011), it gives you that weird twisting uncomfortable feeling in the pit of your stomach durring several of the scenes. This flick follows podcast host (Justin Long) venture up to the great white north of Canada in search of a story to tell his co-host (Haley Joel Osment f***ing 'I see dead people' kid) on their show, he finds himself a story and more than he bargained for. The cast, including Smith's daughter and Johnny Depp's daughter, all do wonderfully in portraying Smiths twisted horror story, but I was blown away to see some downright ridiculously talented acting from Johnny motherf***ing Depp himself. If I were to give a quick overview of this movie I'd probably sum it up with, The Human Centipede meets Kevin Smith meets a Walrus.
Definitely worth seeing if you're looking to watch something truly strange, but don't worry, even when it gets horrific, it's still pretty ridiculous, you'll see what I mean.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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7

Longbottom94Dec 27, 2014

A film that I had really high expectations for (probably too high). I'm a huge fan of the SmodCast show Kevin Smith and Scott Mosier host and when I heard "The Carpenter & The Walrus" episode I couldn't wait for them to make this film. TheA film that I had really high expectations for (probably too high). I'm a huge fan of the SmodCast show Kevin Smith and Scott Mosier host and when I heard "The Carpenter & The Walrus" episode I couldn't wait for them to make this film. The final product is a film which I admire more when thinking about it rather than when I watched it. Individual scenes are great, Michael Parks is great, Justin Long is surprising great and everyone involved all commit to their roles commendably. However, I feel that the whole product is too uneven, and the final scene had me more baffled then amused. Also be warned that listening to that episode of their podcast ruined some of the surprises of the movie for me so just a heads up.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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10

madmantwentyoneSep 19, 2014

Ones and zeros? Give me a break. This movie was hilarious. It's a perfect send-up of all the torture porn/gore flicks that we've been inundated with. Perhaps this has gone over the heads of the reviewers here? "Now, we'll finally get theOnes and zeros? Give me a break. This movie was hilarious. It's a perfect send-up of all the torture porn/gore flicks that we've been inundated with. Perhaps this has gone over the heads of the reviewers here? "Now, we'll finally get the answer to the question that's been burning ever since we crawled out of the surf: Is man actually a walrus at heart?" If you go into this movie looking for anything other than Clerks/Dogma satire and subversion, just stay home. It's more like an 8/10, but I'm attempting to balance two ridiculously pedantic reviews.… Expand

4 of 11 users found this helpful47

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9

MikeyMoOct 6, 2014

One of the most consistently funny movies throughout its entirety that has released in some time. The humour isn't dictated by gags or literal jokes but the actors reactions to situations. In addition, the universe of the film in more, if youOne of the most consistently funny movies throughout its entirety that has released in some time. The humour isn't dictated by gags or literal jokes but the actors reactions to situations. In addition, the universe of the film in more, if you will, rooted in the real world more so than most comedic films. What I mean by this is that despite its absolutely insane concept, generally everything about this movie is a "serious" world rather than, say the universe "This Is The End" takes place in. This contrast makes for a really interesting movie. You'd never know the budget is low as the dialogue takes it through the few sets perfectly.

The writing is surprisingly great full of stellar monologues. The monologues were so solid that I was almost hoping for a Shakespearean aside at one moment (but never happened).

I'd rate this an 8.5 which I rounded to a 9. A very refreshing and unique film. Do not expect any typical Hollywood plot tropes, especially when the ending comes.… Expand

2 of 6 users found this helpful24

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7

Khunter4382Sep 25, 2014

One of Kevin Smith's best! Michael Parks was brilliant! I was really into it until the very end. That ending......I walked out kind of in disappointment, but then as my buddy and I started to digest it, it started growing on me. When youOne of Kevin Smith's best! Michael Parks was brilliant! I was really into it until the very end. That ending......I walked out kind of in disappointment, but then as my buddy and I started to digest it, it started growing on me. When you think of the ending in these terms: Kevin Smith was likely just sitting around planning this movie and I can envision him saying..."How do we end this? You know what would be funny...?" It is beautifully filmed as well. I'm stuck between a 7 and 8 out of 10...probably a 7, but the guilty pleasure side of me wants to scream EIGHT!… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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7

BrianMcCriticDec 31, 2014

This horror comedy works even when it goes to the absurd. I am a Kevin Smith fan (minus Cop Out but I even like Jersey Girl) and this film has many of his normal traits. I can see why this might not work for some especially after the bigThis horror comedy works even when it goes to the absurd. I am a Kevin Smith fan (minus Cop Out but I even like Jersey Girl) and this film has many of his normal traits. I can see why this might not work for some especially after the big cameo, but I kind of dug this film even the big fight scene. B+… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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9

manofthemoonJan 11, 2015

Kevin Smith's black comedy horror is a sly dig at torture porn and all the better for it. Genuinely unsettling, "Tusk" is a film that will stay with you for days. Highly effective and well worth watching.
-1 for a dreadful Johnny Depp in aKevin Smith's black comedy horror is a sly dig at torture porn and all the better for it. Genuinely unsettling, "Tusk" is a film that will stay with you for days. Highly effective and well worth watching.
-1 for a dreadful Johnny Depp in a misguided cameo as an Inspector Clouseau/Lt Columbo mash up that almost derails the entire film.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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10

CapnAmarSep 26, 2014

An interesting coincidence occurred on the drive home from seeing this movie. I was listening to my local rock station, and the song “More Human than Human” by Rob Zombie came on. As I listened, I couldn’t help but feel the song was all tooAn interesting coincidence occurred on the drive home from seeing this movie. I was listening to my local rock station, and the song “More Human than Human” by Rob Zombie came on. As I listened, I couldn’t help but feel the song was all too appropriate for the experience I’d just been through. Both pieces of work were twisted, unique, and contained a dark comic edge. Not to mention the incredibly apt title of the song, poignantly reflecting a central point of the film. It caused me to appreciate even more what was already an incredible and chilling experience brought on by one of my all-time favorite directors, the one and only Kevin Smith.

Tusk follows the story of Wallace Bryton (Justin Long), who hosts the comedy podcast The Not-See Party with his best friend Teddy (Haley Joel Osment), in which they discuss weird and unique people. Wallace gets the ultimate opportunity when on a trip to Canada, he discovers an ad from a mysterious old man named Howard Howe (Michael Parks) offering free lodging in exchange for household chores, and promising to share stories of his wearied life. Wallace takes him up on the offer, but soon comes to discover that Howard is more than he appears. Before long, Wallace finds himself trapped and at the mercy of a man whose obsessions range from old-timey alcohol to…oh, let’s say, walruses.

I find myself having to be rather elusive with my descriptions here, and it is for one simple reason: this is not a film to spoil. As I mentioned before, I am a big fan of Kevin Smith’s directing style. Clerks is one of my favorite films of all time due to its simplicity, its rejection of cinematic conventions, and its excellent script. These are all elements which Smith has mastered over the years with his comedies. Unfortunately, his previous horror outing, Red State, although heavily saturated with Smith’s various tropes, failed to draw me in thanks to lack of any sense of focus and a shameful waste of a very intriguing premise. When it came to Tusk, Smith vowed to fix the mistakes he made with Red State and create a proper, satisfying horror experience. Thankfully, he remained true to his word.

I intentionally refused any trailers for this film before its release. I had heard the story of its conception, stemming from an ad Smith and longtime friend Scott Mosier had heard about and discussed on their show, SModcast, and which immediately sparked an idea for a film based on the ad. To me, this was enough exposition. I tend to avoid trailers in general nowadays, so that I can go into the film with a more open mind and give myself an element of surprise at things I otherwise may not have seen coming.

With Tusk, I absolutely feel that this was the correct choice, as this is a film built entirely around tension. There is a phenomenal extended sequence early on in the film in which Howard, living up to his promises, is telling Wallace stories of his life, including a friendship with Ernest Hemingway. Michael Parks wears Kevin Smith’s dialogue like a champion and gives a delightful performance as he is relating these tales for what is probably five to ten minutes of screen time. The scene is just the two characters sitting in a room talking, accompanied by the occasional flashback; a simple premise, yet extremely effective. Then Howard begins to tell a story of being stranded at sea and being saved by, of all things, a walrus. This is when the tension kicks in, and after a good ten minutes at this point of hearing these two converse, it is a welcome addition to the emotion that has already built up. It is an expertly crafted scene to lead into the insanity that follows.

Unfortunately, the best aspects of the film, I am choosing not to discuss in very much detail. All I can say is throughout the film, it is very heavily implied what climax the events are headed toward, and the final product does not disappoint one bit. The second half of this film shocked and disturbed me to my core. I sat in the theater, mouth agape, attempting to absorb what was being presented to me, and feeling as though I was failing. As previously mentioned, this is thanks to some of the best tension building I’ve seen in a film in quite some time. This is not to mention the terrific cast. Michael Parks, who was one of the only redeeming qualities regarding Red State, can go from a wise, wearied old man to a psychotic then back again instantaneously, as well as anything in between. The range is incredible. I am not normally a fan of Justin Long as an actor, and he does grate a bit early on, however he, too, shows a surprising amount of range and depth in this role. The supporting cast is commendable as well, including the out-of-left-field addition of Johnny Depp, of all people, as the film approaches its third act. At first Depp seems like an almost random insertion, but he immediately proves that he belongs with the rest of this twisted movie.

Depp provides a comedic angle, something else this film does very well. It is classified as a horror-comedy, and although it leans far more toward horror, there is certainly a good amount of dark humor thrown into this. This allows Kevin Smith’s comedic tropes to shine through once again, although this time with a much more demented edge, which is simply wonderful.

I cannot stress enough that there is a very good reason for me being so discreet with my descriptions of Tusk. This was by far the most unique and unforgettable experience I’ve had thus far in a theater in 2014. I walked away from the film thoroughly disturbed, somewhat shivering, at the sights and emotions this film brings to life. This is a film that I believe will stick with me long after the fact, and may even enter the ranks of my favorite films ever made. To mix the Kevin Smith writing standards with one of the most twisted premises that could have been conjured up…the result is something purely one of a kind. I cannot recommend the film enough, although I must urge caution, as it is remarkably gruesome and graphic in its second half. For me, however, this was a haunting experience for which I thank Mr. Smith very much.

Thanks for reading!… Expand

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10

IamTheWalrusOct 20, 2014

This film is just, amazing. I think it is one of the best films I've seen in a long time, it has something most films don't. It doesn't take itself seriously, whilst it may appear this way to someone who doesn't know anything about KevinThis film is just, amazing. I think it is one of the best films I've seen in a long time, it has something most films don't. It doesn't take itself seriously, whilst it may appear this way to someone who doesn't know anything about Kevin Smith, but this is just amazing. After watching this film, I have decided that I do in fact, want to be turned into a walrus man, this film is going to help me live my dream… Expand

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9

ShadowScatheSep 22, 2014

This movie isn't for everyone. Though If you are a Kevin Smith fan or into B rated horror movies then you are in for an amazing treat. Kevin Smith spins a wonderful story of a man wanting to relive the one true friendship in his life thatThis movie isn't for everyone. Though If you are a Kevin Smith fan or into B rated horror movies then you are in for an amazing treat. Kevin Smith spins a wonderful story of a man wanting to relive the one true friendship in his life that just so happened to be with a walrus.

When you get down to it this movie was made because Kevin Smith fans wanted it. People are tired of seeing the same old Hollywood rehashes and remakes that they shove down our throats. Kevin Smith gives us something original a new idea in a see of the same old **** Yes the movie is ridiculous full of camp and satire. Yes it mocks horror tropes and heavily satires the internet culture. Yes you are going to see what Kevin Smith does best and brings the best out of actors.

To all the people bashing this movie it was not made for you. You were not the audience and really have no right to judge it.… Expand

1 of 4 users found this helpful13

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10

TotallyEpicHDNov 9, 2014

I thought that it was a funny, yet horrific torture movie, that will leave me terrified of walruses forever. With great acting and an original plot, Tusk brings out the best of Kevin Smith..in my opinion...

1 of 4 users found this helpful13

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8

TheQuietGamerOct 22, 2016

There's some surprising depth underneath this weird as hell horror-comedy. Themes about humanity being the real monster and human cruelty can be found throughout. It can be hard to pick up on them though. Most of the time you're too busyThere's some surprising depth underneath this weird as hell horror-comedy. Themes about humanity being the real monster and human cruelty can be found throughout. It can be hard to pick up on them though. Most of the time you're too busy being baffled by everything else that's happening onscreen.

There are a lot of laughs to be had here. Some brought on by the genuine comedic bits, others are born out of the fact that all you can do is laugh at the insane crap happening. Laugh or get grossed out. There are a few bits of gross-out horror to be found here. The rest is about the human monster.

It's a weird vision. One that isn't going to hook everyone. Given how easy it is to overlook the deeper themes running in the background, it's one that probably holds up better on a second watch. The first watch though, is still a crazy, entertaining ride. A ride that succeeds thanks to craziness and originality.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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7

duncan1964Jan 23, 2015

A true oddity if ever there was one. A young podcast presenter visits Canada and ends up talking to an old man that says he has stories that the guy will find hard to believe. One involves his encounter with a walrus and his wish to rekindleA true oddity if ever there was one. A young podcast presenter visits Canada and ends up talking to an old man that says he has stories that the guy will find hard to believe. One involves his encounter with a walrus and his wish to rekindle the friendship. What happens next is funny, horrific and original. Maybe too talky for some looking for all out horror, but for those looking for something miles away from the mainstream this is right up your street… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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8

sometimesOct 8, 2016

I have such mixed feelings, the internal conflicts still clash, hours later. I intensely disliked the main character, in equal parts for his character and him being such an awful actor. Maybe it's just the strange place I'm in myself. InI have such mixed feelings, the internal conflicts still clash, hours later. I intensely disliked the main character, in equal parts for his character and him being such an awful actor. Maybe it's just the strange place I'm in myself. In spite of it's flaws, I quite liked it.… Expand

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8

hapycampr2002Dec 21, 2014

I don't pretend to be a film critic, but I will give a layman's review of how I reacted to the movie. Overall I liked the movie and was entertained by it. It was a smart movie. It succeeds at being both funny and scary...up to a point.I don't pretend to be a film critic, but I will give a layman's review of how I reacted to the movie. Overall I liked the movie and was entertained by it. It was a smart movie. It succeeds at being both funny and scary...up to a point. Michael Parks was GREAT. He basically made the movie an 8. Without giving anything away, at the point when we see Mr. Parks' finished masterpiece the movie lost steam for me. I loved it until that point, when it went from being horror to absurdity. Unfortunately I was also aware that the inspector was being played by Johnny Depp, so that was distracting - I would have liked to have seen somebody in that role as entertaining as Mr. Parks was in his.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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8

Meth-dudeDec 14, 2014

I didn't had expectations when the movie started.The story is original and weird the makeup for the walrus are amazing and he acting is really good.The movie is disturbing only when Justin Long's character start to change.Unfortunately theI didn't had expectations when the movie started.The story is original and weird the makeup for the walrus are amazing and he acting is really good.The movie is disturbing only when Justin Long's character start to change.Unfortunately the movie is not so funny and the main theme is stupid,plus it's a pretty slow movie.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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7

HaithamBDec 2, 2014

It is terrific, and it is absolutely one of the scariest and one of the most disturbing movies of 2014. "Tusk", directed by Kevin Smith (Red State), is a must see for horror fans.

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10

TrevorDevendorfDec 19, 2014

This is one of the most unique films you'll come across, how it started is so cool on Smodcast #259 on June 25, 2013, and being a Kevin Smith fan since Clerks led me to this podcast that introduced Tusk's plot synopsis (in which of course wasThis is one of the most unique films you'll come across, how it started is so cool on Smodcast #259 on June 25, 2013, and being a Kevin Smith fan since Clerks led me to this podcast that introduced Tusk's plot synopsis (in which of course was a rant/joke). And now it's on of my favourite Kevin Smith films to date after 2011's Red State also with Michael Parks, he is one of those actors that can entice you very easily by telling a story. Props to Kevin Smith and the Crew! Also Johnny Depp is amazing as always, i absolutely loved his character!… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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10

lachatdurabisJan 17, 2015

If you didn't like the movie, you may just not be clever enough. it was a strange ride down through this mountain of Black-comedic-gold that left me wondering if what I saw was genius or stupidity with a hint of clout.
This movie impressedIf you didn't like the movie, you may just not be clever enough. it was a strange ride down through this mountain of Black-comedic-gold that left me wondering if what I saw was genius or stupidity with a hint of clout.
This movie impressed me for several reasons most Kevin Smith is now the bravest man in Hollywood and all of you will benefit from having such an individual in the mainstream, it means...WE CAN LIKE MOVIES AGAIN!!!! it means that imagination isn't being put on the back-burner it means...
I'm proud to live in the era of Kevin Smith.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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8

mrafrotastic00Jun 2, 2018

Tusk: This isn't Smith's best, but it is definitely on the right track. Starring: Michael Lewis. Justin Long. Haley Joel Osment. Directed by Kevin Smith. By Blake Patterson. 80/100. Fans of Kevin Smith, like myself, probably watched orTusk: This isn't Smith's best, but it is definitely on the right track. Starring: Michael Lewis. Justin Long. Haley Joel Osment. Directed by Kevin Smith. By Blake Patterson. 80/100. Fans of Kevin Smith, like myself, probably watched or recoiled from his horror comedy, "Tusk." "Tusk" is the strangest film of the century, and that's a compliment to Smith. Smith created a film that is fantastic at being eerie; it's more peculiar than Tim Burton's adaptation of "Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children." The motion picture follows an egotistical podcaster, Justin Long achieves a different kind of role, that travels to Canada, and gets in contact with a bombastic senior citizen, the late Michael Parks is creepily hilarious, that is hiding morbidly bizarre secrets. People might know this film as the story about the guy that is transformed into a walrus; the sight of it will make viewers gasp. This movie steals elements from "Misery," "Frankenstein," and other films. For the humor, the jokes are hits and misses, but the hits benefit some audience members. By the way, I should mention that a famous actor portrays an unsophisticated detective named Guy Lapointe; the actor's initials are "JD." In conclusion, Kevin Smith's talent isn't gone.… Expand

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7

mcleanman36Nov 28, 2021

This movie is a very decent to good horror/drama. Justin Long is surprisingly a good actor for his role in this movie and plays good opposite the very believable bad guy. It's definitely a movie that is very different but not in a way that is bad.

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