Cube (1997)
Written By: Grave Reviews Staff
Film Information
Director: Vincenzo Natali
Producer: Mehra Meh, Betty Orr
Screenwriter: Andre Bijelic, Graeme Manson, et. al.
Date Released: September 9, 1997
Cast:
Maurice Dean Wint as Quentin McNeil
Nicole de Boer as Joan Leaven
David Hewlett as David Worth
Andrew Miller as Kazan
Nicky Guadagni as Dr. Helen Holloway
Wayne Robson as Rennes
Julian Richings as Alderson
Rating = 3.5/5 Graves
***May contain some spoilers***
Synopsis
Cube (1997) follows seven people who wake up in a cube-shaped room, not knowing where they are or why they are there. Together they must try to escape what appears to be an endless maze, each room with a potential trap. This Sci-fi/horror film has a unique concept that leaves much mystery to the audience. Filled with deadly traps, the group comes across what appears to be a handicapped individual. However, his ability to compute mathematical equations proves helpful in trying to escape this death trap. But, not everyone in the group may have genuine intentions.
Gore Factor
Cube (1997) offers an array of creative and unique scenes which portray blood, gore and severed body parts. In the film, Cube (1997), each room is devised of a particular trap which the protagonists have to overcome. In one room, for example, a wire fence comes down and slices a person in cubes in a grotesque way. Although Cube (1997) has its fair share of blood and gore, the film excels at building suspense and creating the anticipation that another trap is right around the corner.
The Grave Review
Cube (1997) is a great example of using a very simple plot and taking it to the next level. The story of seven people trapped in an endless maze on its face may seem very simple but, Cube manages to create an environment that is filled with uncertainty and excitement. In this film, the only antagonists come from the people who, themselves are trapped in this mysterious world. Throughout the film, the viewer is unaware of who created this death trap and why it was created. The only aspects that the viewer is made aware of is that some rooms are dangerous and others are not. In the end, it becomes a battle to see whether the group can continue to work together. The plot is excellent and the concept is spot on. Cube truly makes you believe that something like this could be possible.
What may be questionable is the acting in this film. From a general standpoint, some of the performances were not very believable. But, as the film progresses, the actors and actresses may grow on you by the end of the film. Nevertheless, there is so much going on and to consider that you may not mind the acting so much. But, for purposes of review, we would ding the film for this aspect.
There are three films in total. The other two films give a little more explanation into the world of Cube. The third film, Cube Zero is a prequel to the first Cube film. However, of the three films, this is the best one.
Overall, Cube is a really excellent watch, however, as stated above, the acting is somewhat to be desired. Nevertheless, there are many good elements of Cube (no pun intended) that the film deserves an “A” for originality.
For the foregoing reasons, Grave Reviews gives Cube (1997) gives three and one-half graves of out five graves.
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