This is really the kind of film you would only go to see once. Although what you've probably heard most about it is the violence, this really acts as a driving force behind the main story, which is essentially Nicolas Cage's character seeking to find the truth behind a so-called 'snuff movie'. During this investigation, he comes face to face with the very worst side of sleeze, and the sex industry in America. I think it portrays very well the reactions and emotions of a 'normal' guy, ( Cage plays a family man, and often portrayed in the movie talking to his wife and baby daughter ) when faced with this kind of violence. Cage does pull this off very well, and the acting is always good, if a little 'over-cooked' in parts. The comparisons with the film '7' I think are misplaced, I never felt the same sense of shock or fear in '8MM', and the motivations and forces which drive the characters are entirely different.
The one failing I found was the final scene, which I thought was hammily acted and entirely predictable. If you go see this movie, don't bring you Mom, but don't expect to see something you never have before either.
I'd give a 6/10.
The one failing I found was the final scene, which I thought was hammily acted and entirely predictable. If you go see this movie, don't bring you Mom, but don't expect to see something you never have before either.
I'd give a 6/10.