Kevin Smith has proven to have staying power in the world of film-making whether his films reach large audiences or not. However, one of his least-discussed films came about during a period of his career most movie-goers would consider a “slump,” but Tusk itself would suggest that it certainly wasn’t a creative slump. Holding just a 46% Critics Tomatometer score on Rotten Tomatoes – and an even worse 36% audience score – Tusk is one of Smith’s lower-rated outings.
Regardless, Tusk offers a genuinely fascinating look into the work of a primarily comic director entering an entirely new genre, and it should be viewed as a success as far as creativity goes. While there are a few very jarring elements included in the film, it still holds up far better a decade after its release than it did for audiences in 2014. Becoming something of a cult favorite ten years later, Tusk remains an underappreciated film by a director who appreciates the nuances of film far more than a corner of the general audience gives him credit.
I went in thinking it’d be stupid B-Movie material. I was surprised at how good of a body horror flick it was. Super uncomfortable to watch for me, and I’m pretty jaded to a lot of horror movies.
I mentioned this in the thread covering the trailer for his new film, as I really enjoyed Tusk. I am surprised that the RT scores are so low but it is also not a film for everyone.
I thought Tusk was a fun movie. I was surprised after watching it that people don’t like it.
I mean, just the entire first conversation in the old guys living room when they meet is worth watching the movie for.
I personally think the whole RT system is awful. Why have a film prejudged by other people? Try watching it yourself and making up your own mind. Remember, you can stop a film if you’re not enjoying it.
It doesn’t help that some fandoms like to review bomb which only makes matters worse.
RT has got itself stuck with the Rotten/Fresh schtick and it is too easily gamed. IMDb’s is more useful as a guide but, if a film sounds interesting, I’ll give it a shot and make my own mind up as there may be some redeeming feature that wins me round that might not necessarily work for other people.
This is one of those movies where I like to think in opened minded enough to see, but the premise seems so disturbing I just seriously doubt I ever will. Filed it under “The Human Centipede” or anything like that. No thanks.
It’s not as cruel as Human Centipede and the sheer outlandish nature of the horror takes a bit of the sting away, but it isn’t for everyone.
I have not seen this movie because I think parts of it would be a bit much for me. But every time i hear about it I am like, damn, what a concept. I’m surprised people weren’t as hyped about it when it came out.