Cube (1997)

**Spoiler Alert**

While Cube presents an intriguing premise of individuals trapped in a deadly maze, the execution leaves much to be desired. The film attempts to blend horror with existential themes, however it's lackluster the result is more confusing than thought-provoking. The lack of clarity regarding the Cube's purpose and the characters' motivations creates a narrative void that fails to engage the audience meaningfully. Instead of offering insightful commentary, it often feels like a series of contrived scenarios designed solely for shock value and being gory.

The performances are generally subpar, with characters portrayed in exaggerated manners that detract from their believability. For instance, Quentin's descent into madness is depicted through over-the-top acting rather than nuanced character development. This makes it difficult for viewers to empathize with any of the characters, as they come across as unlikable or poorly developed archetypes rather than fully realized individuals which results in unstickable mediocre act.

The film's reliance on mathematical concepts as a means of escape is both its unique selling point and its downfall. While the idea of using advanced mathematics to navigate the Cube is intriguing, it ultimately feels forced and unrealistic. The plot hinges on the assumption that a specific character possesses unique skills necessary for survival, which raises questions about fairness and logic within the narrative. This reliance on improbable scenarios leads to significant plot holes that undermine the overall tension and coherence of the story and popping more questions than giving answers to the ones that are already there.

Perhaps most frustrating is the film's ending, which resolves the intricate buildup with a lackluster conclusion that feels like a betrayal of its earlier promise. After building tension through complex character dynamics and deadly traps, the resolution appears rushed and unsatisfying. The film ends without providing any real answers or closure, leaving viewers feeling cheated after investing their time in a convoluted journey of nothingness.

In summary, Cube offers a fascinating concept but falters in execution, character development, and narrative coherence. Its potential as a thought-provoking horror film is squandered by poor acting and an unsatisfactory conclusion, making it difficult to recommend despite its cult status (Other ones are spectacular disasters in their own right, so it's best to just steer clear of them altogether).

Oct 23, 2024

Cube is a fascinating, low-budget sci-fi thriller that makes the most of its minimalist setup. The concept is simple but incredibly effective, a group of strangers trapped in a deadly maze of cube-shaped rooms. The movie thrives on its tension and psychological undertones, diving into how humans react under extreme pressure. It’s a smart, inventive film that doesn’t spoon-feed answers, leaving you to wrestle with its deeper themes about survival, human nature, and systems of control. While the traps and puzzles are memorable, the true focus is on the characters and how they clash as their desperation grows.

That said, the film isn’t without its flaws. The constant use of tight close-ups and high focal lengths creates an almost unbearable sense of claustrophobia, but not always in a good way. At times, the cinematography feels disorienting and can pull you out of the moment. Combined with some uneven performances and occasionally stiff dialogue, these elements might not work for everyone. Still, Cube is a must-watch if you enjoy tense, thought-provoking thrillers that make you question everything by the time the credits roll. It’s the kind of movie that sticks with you, even if it leaves you a little shaken.

Jan 18, 2025