Let Me In has elements from both the novel as well as the original 2008 film. The film that should have run against The Dark Knight for Best Picture... well, um, nevermind.
The original subscribed to an idea of 'less is more.' This one is definitely made for America. A heavy accent on an unforgiving horror angle leaves this film mislead in tone. Some of the scenes previously shown, even read, are now cast in a light so demonic it almost seems humorous and self-aware. Many times while viewing my mind would go back to Raimi's Drag Me to Hell.
This applies to the romantic facets of the story as well. The times when horror generally mixed with romantic gestures, the horror would always overshadow. At other times, the romantic lines would be dropped so quick and intense, it becomes quite difficult to care about the characters.
The pacing in Lindqvist's novel was all over the place, the same with this film. With this being said, it would have been perfect if they would have toned the extremities down to a more realistic level.
With this being said, Let Me In was clearer in its message about growing up... or rather so the contrast of being able to grow up normal and self-reliant vs giving your life away.
0 comments