Trauma

With a clear intention to shock, "Trauma" (2017) perhaps represents one of the most brutal examples of the horror genre. The film's plot is anchored in the deep scars that Pinochet's dictatorship left in Chile and its society, exploring a narrative full of violence and taboo themes.

The film has its highlights, such as the villain Juan, a memorable character devoid of compassion, well-crafted gore scenes, a constant tension and discomfort that permeate most of the work, as well as an underlying social criticism, although, in some moments , this criticism may seem like a mere excuse for the continued presentation of brutality. However, the performances of the main cast leave something to be desired at times, with the character Andrea being the only one to really stand out. Additionally, there are times when digital visual effects look strange and unrealistic.

"Trauma" is not a film aimed at the general public, as its plot is dark, its violence is excessively graphic and it addresses extremely delicate or disturbing themes. In this way, the only audience that will be attracted to this work is those who are entering the universe of extreme cinema or consider themselves a fan of this genre.

The premise of the movie is strong, and the overall production is good, but while I'm fairly desensitized to graphic violence, the rape scene was sickening, excruciatingly long, and unnecessarily graphic. The direction of the scene doesn't waver in terms of the brutality and that the women are tragic victims; nevertheless, I felt it was over the top to a point that I had to ask why.

The introductory scene of Juan as a young man, which also is the opening scene of the film, also was intensely disturbing. I'm on the fence as to whether it was gratuitous or not. I know the Chilean revolution of the '70s was exceptionally brutal and violent, so perhaps it's necessary thematically. I don't think viewers from the United States are willing to tolerate that level of visceral, grotesque brutality on the screen, however.

The film is overall very dark and difficult to tolerate at times, in my opinion, and I sort of wish I hadn't watched it.

Senseles violence, rape, torture. ... no rhyme or reason. Where is the plot? A movie like A Serbian Film does a better job telling this sort of messed up story. I had to turn this film off because I got tired of hearing the same screaming over and over and over.

Some other reviewers like to talk bad about anyone who enjoys these types of movies, such as A Serbian Film. But the truth is that there is a market for this type of art, if done correctly. This movie failed at bringing together a solid story.

How do you rate and or review a movie like this? Not easy to say the least - on the other hand, if you make it through the opening of the movie ... well there is one other scene, that starts off as a party scene, but does totally get horrible once some unexpected guests arrive.

The movie does try to shock and mostly succeeds I would say. Forceful sex is one (terrible) thing, but the start of the movie adds another layer to it (no pun intended). So this is clearly exploitation - you have to know that, accept it for what it is or do not watch at all.

What can be said about it: it does look good. Disgusting things happen, but they are filmed in quite the amazing way. But while you have to decide if you are triggered and/or squeamish when it comes to movies like this one right here, it does never reach the potential of Serbian Film. That had some other levels to it - the war, the society and that dreamworld like craziness. Also the soundtrack was just great. Can't really be said here.

Still the movie will tickle the right things for you - if you know what those are. Not really up my alley - no pun intended, no matter how well it is made technically speaking and the acting isn't too shabby either. Plus nice blood and other effects.

-Stupid script; -stupid dialogue; -gratuitious nudity and full frontals galore; -stupid "based on a true story" BS historical context with the Chilean dictatorship (exploiting history and victims); -shock for the sake of shocking; -confused plot; -plot holes; Etc.

Not much to say about this one, it tries to top aA Serbian Film but fails because ASF, how exploitative it might be, actually has a somewhat coherent plot.

This grabbage doesn't.

A tedious watch, where the overall garbageness overwhelms everything else.