Watch Stinking Heaven

Stinking Heaven is a 2015 independent film written and directed by Nathan Silver. The movie features a group of people who live in a commune in New Jersey in the 1990s. It is a dark drama that explores the dynamics of a dysfunctional and toxic community. The film opens with a group of people gathered around a cassette recorder, telling their deepest secrets and fears. We then meet the various members of the commune, each with their own issues and problems. The leader of the group is an ex-drug addict, who is trying to create a new, harmonious life. However, the community has its fair share of problems and resentments. Some members are struggling with addiction, while others are dealing with infidelity and failed relationships.

The movie primarily follows the story of Keith and Betty, a couple who rent a room in the commune. They are a troubled couple, with Betty struggling with addiction and Keith often losing his temper. The arrival of a new member in the community destabilizes their already fragile relationship, leading to a dramatic and explosive finale.

The movie has a slow and deliberate pace, with long takes and minimalistic dialogue. The film is shot on 16mm film, giving it a grainy and naturalistic look. The soundtrack features a mix of country and rock music, adding to the film's retro atmosphere.

The performances are a highlight of the movie. Deragh Campbell gives a standout performance as Betty, conveying her desperation and addiction with honesty and nuance. Henri Douvry is also excellent as the leader of the commune, bringing a sense of vulnerability to his character's attempt to create a new, utopian community.

As a character study, Stinking Heaven succeeds in portraying the complexities and contradictions of its subjects. Each character is flawed and struggling, making it difficult to root for any one character. The film raises questions about the nature of community, the limits of forgiveness, and the possibility of healing.

Stinking Heaven is not a film that will appeal to everyone. Its slow pace, dark subject matter, and minimalist approach may be off-putting to some viewers. However, for those who appreciate independent cinema, Stinking Heaven is a well-crafted and thought-provoking film. It is a haunting and disturbing look at a group of people trying to find meaning and connection in a world that seems devoid of both.

Overall, Stinking Heaven is an accomplished and impressive film. It is a dark drama that explores the complexities of human relationships, addiction, and the search for meaning. Despite its challenging subject matter, the film succeeds in delivering a powerful and thought-provoking message.

Stinking Heaven is a 2015 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 10 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.8 and a MetaScore of 62.