by Shane Conto, Staff Writer
Is something in the water overseas this year? If things work out how they might, we could experience one of the most bold and controversial lineups of Best International Film nominees. First, Titane made quite the splash with its automotive intercourse and serial killer story over here in the States. Recently after seeing the film, I saw a tweet describing how tame Titane would look in comparison to Bad Luck Banging or Loony Porn. How can that even be possible? What could this Romanian film do to overshadow the insanity that is Titane? Just… you… wait.
What is so controversial about writer-director Radu Jude’s new film that he wrote and directed? First off, I hope you are ready for PLENTY of real sexual acts. No faking at all… and you see it ALL. The film starts off on a bold footing as our protagonist, Emi (Katia Pascariu), is recording a sex tape with her husband. But this is an actual sex tape as the two actors have sex on tape with all the dirty talk you can imagine. But what is the purpose? This unexpected porn video goes virtual and threatens Emi’s career as a teacher. But this certainly is not the end of the vulgar and sexual display in the film. The middle section delivers some acted definitions of sexual terms. Even the finale will leave you with your mouth hanging open with such a sexual display not seen since the climax of Sausage Party. This film will surely put you in an interesting place (and surely don’t watch this one with your parents).
But is this film just a bunch of hyperreal sex scenes? Oh… please don’t make that mistake. Jude’s film killed it at the Berlin International Film Festival, and Romania picked it as their selection for the Oscars for a reason. This is a bold and impactful exercise in the art of filmmaking. There is plenty of depth in themes that Jude tackles in this film. The most overt is challenging its audience with the sensitivity that surrounds sexual content. This witch hunt that the film focuses on puts a giant spotlight on the judgmental perspective that humanity has outwardly for sexual expression. The terrible “trial” that Emi endures is full of immoral fiends, yet she is the one who should be prosecuted. These parents spew prejudice and fascist rhetoric, and embody criminal behavior to make sure that their children can step over their peers. The biting commentary in this film is incredible in the way that it is unrelenting and unshaken in the face of adversity, the way it peers deeply into our human nature as selfish and constant consumers.
Provocative material and important themes can go a long way… but is that enough to make a great film? Jude’s direction is unabashedly in your face, and pulls no punches along the way. The film has a steady and assured way about it, and you can tell that Jude is unshaken in his handling of these ideas and the tone of the film. This film is also quite biting in its dark humor and sharp commentary of all types of things (COVID response, sexual shaming, consumerism, fascism, and many more). Pascariu’s performance is also strong and committed. The emotional turmoil that Emi experiences is channeled impeccably well by Pascariu, who has a strong grasp of who this woman should be. She is forced to take on a brunt of verbal abuse and shaming, and she can channel a wide breadth of different emotions along the way. The storytelling is bold (with three parts, along with three endings) which just might be a little too bold for some viewers. But this approach is unique and different from most three act stories and is certainly worth experiencing.
Has this convinced you enough yet? There is something special and unrelenting in the way that Bad Luck Banging or Loony Porn conveys its message to many viewers. This is certainly not for the faint of heart or the easily offended. But if you are ready for one of the most raw and impactful films to grace the silver screen in a while… make sure to treat yourself to this experience. You will certainly never forget it.
Grade: A+
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