6/10After watching an advanced screening of Repo Men in Toronto last night, couple things jumped out at me. A) filming location, b) gore c) storyline.
About ten minutes into the film, murmuring filled the entire theatre as everyone had the same realization/recognition that Repo men is filmed in Toronto. The film didn’t seem to put any effort into set decoration, because of how easily identifiable the locations are. The TTC logo is clearly in view for the subway scenes, Eaton centre stands out and despite their attempt to hide it through CGI, it is still obvious Queens street is one of the filming locations. Recognizing the locations made it difficult to focus on the film. Then again, if you never been to Toronto, then this should not be a problem.
Unlike SAW series, the gore in this film is just right. Repo Men has gore interspersed throughout the entire film but not over done. Not to say the film isn’t gory, if you have a weak stomach than this is not the film for you. The film seems to use every kind of tool possible from hammers to pocketknives in its killing/fight/surgical scenes. Be ready to see ten different types of blood splatters, sprays and stains.
Repo Men sadly lacks in a solid storyline and character development. The main character (Jude Law) goes through one epiphany but that is it for entire film. The story seems to be pieced together somewhat randomly with attempts to add twists and turns. The film is not very thrilling, or suspenseful. The ending, even though it is unpredictable, isn’t shocking rather a bit disappointing. Overall the storyline lacked in meat and could have done better in character development.
Nevertheless the gore and premise makes it somewhat worth seeing.
