“Frailty” is a creepy, profoundly disturbing film. It’s hung over me like a shroud since I left the theater earlier today. The ending may seem like typical Hollywood trickery, and it’s not hard to predict, but for me it actually made the movie more upsetting. This is not your average serial killer movie, which gives off about as much charge in these jaded times as a 40-watt light bulb. This one packs a punch. I can’t say I enjoyed myself, but I was glued to the screen throughout. Excellent performances by Bill Paxton (who also directed) as the father, and the two young actors who play the flashback versions of Matthew McConaghey and his brother.
There’s a lot going on here, but not a lot I can discuss without giving away too much. It would be a great movie to go see with thoughtful friends, and see what their reaction is afterward. But you need a strong constitution, not because of a huge amount of violence on the screen, but because of the implications of what’s not shown.
Recommended? I just don’t know what to say.