Not Family Friendly.This is the American version of the Swedish film, "Let the right one in." Can't compare the American version to the original, since I've only seen one of them. But I do know that the Director of the Swedish version was not happy that his film was re-made. In his opinion, remakes are for films that were crappy the first time around. "Let the right one in" was a huge hit with the critics.
For those of you who read my "Kick-***" movie review, a certain character in "Let me in" will be very familiar. The part of the young vampire is played by Chloe Moretz. And if you think Hit Girl was a disturbing character, well; Abby makes her look like Dora the Explorer.
"Let me in" features a young, pre-teen, female vampire named Abby who befriends a shy and deeply troubled boy named Owen. Taking place in 1983, the film tracks their friendship which is sometimes sweet, sometimes disturbing, and sometimes both at once. In fact, I've never seen a film before that struck such an incredible balance between scenes that were touching and disturbing. At one point, converging in a scene that easily could be described as a unique blending of the two. There is gore in this film. But it's only a touch over the top. You won't be sitting through scene after scene of severed heads rolling across the floor.
The film is not fast-paced. The disturbing elements come from the subtle tones in the film. When you scratch the surface, that's when the truly disturbing elements make themselves known. Half an hour after seeing the film, I grabbed a quick bite to eat, and that's when certain plot points and elements came to me. This film really makes you think. It's not mindless entertainment that leaves you walking out of the theatre with a sense of, "That was cool." (Not that there's anything wrong with that.)
For example: Does everything happen by chance or is she manipulating the boy?
When you think you know, the film tosses you a curve that leaves you guessing.
Hammer Films is one of the production houses responsible for the American version being made. And if you remember those old Hammer horror movies, you have an idea of what to expect. Ironically, quite a few elements from Hammer's old vampire films are present in this one.
There is just a bit of nudity in the film, but not from Chloe Moertz. (Keep in mind that she's only 14 in real life.)
I won't give away the biggest, most thought-provoking twist in the film. Let's just say that the more you think about it, the more disturbing it really becomes. I will however say that . . . Pay close attention to the kitchen scene when Abby's dad is getting ready to go out.
This film is definitely worth seeing. (Keep the kids at home.)
When it's over, and you really start to think about what you've just seen . . . That is what makes this a great film.
If you like your vampires bad-*** with sword-slashing action, or you like them less manly with a glittering chest, or you like them to teach your kids how to count; then this film isn't for you. It deals with the not-even-remotely-close-to-being-cool-or-fun aspects of vampires. This ain't "Twilight." This ain't your little sister's vampire movie.
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