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"River's Edge" - Still messed up after all these years. Anyone else?

Okay, so I just rewatched "River's Edge" and…wow. It's even more disturbing now than it was when I first saw it years ago. I mean, the whole detached, almost apathetic way the teens react to Jamie's murder is just chilling. Samson is obviously a psychopath, but what about the others? Layne is trying to be cool and protective, Matt's just zoned out, and Clarissa seems more inconvenienced than anything else. Even Maggie, who is Jamie's friend, is just...there. It's like they're all sleepwalking through this horrific event. I keep thinking about the scene where they're all standing around Jamie's body. The close-ups on their faces are so telling. Keanu Reeves' character, Matt, seems the most conflicted, but even he ultimately goes along with Layne's plan to protect Samson. It makes you wonder how much peer pressure and fear contributed to their inaction. And what about Crispin Glover as Layne? He is the film's most interesting character, and while totally unhinged, acts out of love for Samson. I know the movie is supposed to be a commentary on the disillusionment and alienation of youth in the 80s, but does it go too far? Is it realistic, or just sensationalized? I'm genuinely curious what other people think about the film's portrayal of teenage apathy. Also, did anyone else find the Dennis Hopper cameo as the reclusive, drug-dealing guy with the inflatable doll kind of…out of place? It was so strange and almost comedic in a really dark way. I'm not sure if I liked it or hated it, lol. He is a creepy character, thought. Anyways, I'd love to hear your thoughts! What did you think of "River's Edge"? Did it shock you, bore you, or something in between?

oliviacinema
3 months ago
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