Watch The Vicious Kind
- R
- 2009
- 1 hr 32 min
-
6.8 (8,067)
The Vicious Kind is a 2009 drama film starring Adam Scott, Brittany Snow, and Alex Frost. Directed by Lee Toland Krieger and produced by Neil Kopp, the film was released to critical acclaim and a number of awards and nominations. The film centers around the character of Caleb Sinclaire (Adam Scott), a bitter and misogynistic man who becomes obsessed with his younger brother's girlfriend, Emma Gainsborough (Brittany Snow). The story takes place over a long weekend when Caleb is tasked with driving Emma and his brother, Peter (Alex Frost), to their college campus.
From the very beginning, it is clear that Caleb is an unlikeable character, as he immediately shows disdain for both Emma and Peter. He is a character who has been deeply hurt by women in his past, and as a result, he sees them as nothing more than objects to be used and discarded. This attitude is apparent in his interactions with Emma, who he constantly belittles and tries to manipulate.
Despite this, Emma feels drawn to Caleb, and the two begin to develop a strange and intense connection. The tension between the two characters builds throughout the film, leading to a shocking climax that will leave audiences on the edge of their seats.
One of the most impressive aspects of The Vicious Kind is the performances of the lead actors. Adam Scott is absolutely phenomenal as Caleb, delivering a nuanced and complex portrayal of a deeply damaged man. His performance is raw and powerful, and he perfectly captures the blend of vulnerability and anger that defines his character.
Brittany Snow is also excellent as Emma, managing to make her character sympathetic and likable despite the fact that she is involved in a deeply disturbing and dysfunctional relationship. Her chemistry with Scott is palpable, and the scenes between the two of them are some of the film's most intense and compelling.
Alex Frost rounds out the cast with a solid performance as Peter, the younger brother who is caught in the middle of Caleb and Emma's tumultuous relationship. While he doesn't have as much screen time as Scott and Snow, Frost is able to make an impact in his scenes, and his character provides an important counterbalance to Caleb's toxic masculinity.
Another strong point of The Vicious Kind is the writing. The dialogue is sharp and witty, revealing the characters' motivations and personalities in a natural and believable way. The film also deals with a number of deep themes, such as toxic masculinity, the damaging effects of trauma, and the complex dynamics of dysfunctional relationships.
The film's cinematography is also noteworthy, with the stunning landscapes of rural America serving as a beautiful backdrop for the characters' emotional journey. The use of color and lighting is also effective in creating a mood of tension and unease throughout the film.
Overall, The Vicious Kind is a powerful and affecting drama that explores the darker side of human relationships. It is a film that will leave a lasting impression on viewers, thanks to its outstanding performances, nuanced writing, and stunning visuals. It is a must-see for anyone who enjoys intense and thought-provoking cinema.
The Vicious Kind is a 2009 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 32 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.8 and a MetaScore of 65.