Day 35 - The Dark Backward (1991): Also known as The Man With Three Arms, The Dark Backward is a peculiar one that isn’t exactly difficult to decipher but it’s weird all the same. I can’t think of many films that made me feel sick without relying on gore, shock or horrible imagery but this film manages to create an uneasy atmosphere through all its odd quirks that I quite admire. Set in what feels like an alternate universes dystopia, an unfunny comedian (Judd Nelson) finds a mainstream audience when a third arm begins to grow out his back. With the help of his sleazy accordion playing friend (Bill Paxton) the duo of outcasts aim for critical acclaim. I personally feel that Judd Nelson and Bill Paxton’s larger than life performances in this are among their best and sets a mood for the almost obnoxiously off beat style. Everything in this film is either layered in grease, dirt or green tinted light and each character’s costumes, surroundings and mannerisms are just plain weird. I’m running out of synonyms for “weird” to sum this film up, it really needs to be experienced to be explained. Aside from its style, the running allegorical theme of differences being exploitable by industry and the promise of fame having an unhealthy hold on working class life are consistent and uniquely explored. I’m aware I’m a sucker for the bizarre and The Dark Backward is trying with all its might for cult status but I think it just won me over? It was a little too much in some areas but overall it stayed true to its intent and made up for its silliness by never being boring. 7/10 #thedarkbackward #manwiththreearms #threearms #arms #juddnelson #billpaxton #cultfilm #laraflynnboyle #90s #weird #film #films #movies #movie ##filmblog #filmblogger #movieblogger #movieblog #filmreview #reviewfilm #review #moviereview #cinephile #cinema https://www.instagram.com/p/BuanwyhF1ch/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=1c7a9id67j2o2
