Random Acts of Violence is a highly experimental low budget pseudo-documentary satire that I've picked up for three bucks some time ago. The story revolves a young adult of British origin living in New York City who is getting tired of gentrification. In order to introduce some changes in this boring city, he randomly start killing people while being filmed by some associates. His sinister actions soon start to interfere with his personal social life. However, the rest of society, politicians and even the police don't seem to care. The young adult tries to go one step further as he decides to assassinate a candidate running for mayor to finally get some attention.
The story itself is already quite unusual but there are many more things that will get your attention. The movie is an experimental low budget effort with almost no special efforts that gives it the vibe of a self-made documentary. The lead character, while being a complete lunatic, is quite charismatic and played quite uniquely by lead actor Ashley Cahill who is fairly unknown and deserves more attention. The quirky locations show the diversity of New York City in a unique way as they explore trendy bars, new restaurants and elegant apartments. The movie's ending comes around with an absurd but fitting twist that makes you laugh and think at the same time. This is certainly a movie you won't forget anytime soon.
Obviously, this type of movie is an acquired taste. The story is rather shallow. The movie portrays brutal violence in random ways that make it look like ordinary events. Even though pretentious reviewers seem to see a profound meaning behind the movie, there actually isn't one. This film feels like an experimental art house project by some nonconformist film school students.
In the end, Random Acts of Violence is unlike any other film you have ever seen and will ever watch. It's experimental at all costs. Some people are going to hate it with passion, others are going to adore its unconventional style without any compromises and then there are going to be people like me who are situated somewhere in between. This film is like a guilty pleasure because I like it despite its gruesome random violence. I would however only recommend this movie to people who like experimental movies and aren't afraid to push their boundaries.
