Funny Game U.S. = Tension

Funny Games U.S. grabs you by the balls from the outset and doesn't leave you go 'til the end credits roll. Haneke toys with the viewer, tapping into the contemporary fears people have of senseless acts of violence that are commited. I can easily imagine this scenario taking place in America.

All of the acting performances are outstanding, but Naomi Watts and Michael Pitt are utterly convincing.

Haneke's trademark dead-pan, matter-of-fact camera works very effectively throughout as it intensifies the helplessness of the victims while, at the same time, keeping the viewer outside the story as a sort of impotent mute observer who is forced to witness the taumatic events. The static camera therefore creates much of the tension, adding to the slowly unfurling mind-fuck wrought upon the family. One of the most disturbing elements of Pitt's character is his cold patience and impeccable manners. He insists on keeping up an air of politeness and remains ice cool while playing mind games.

Haneke delivers again.

9/10