entry #5: Funny Games (1997) + Funny Games US (2007) directed by Michael Haneke Michael Haneke directed the original German film “Funny Games” in 1997. 10 years later, he decided to make a shot by shot English remake of the film entitled “Funny Games US”. The reason for this is that he wanted the film to reach American audiences, as it has a lot to do with violence in film, and reality. The violence in this film is never shown on screen which allows the audience to bring their own imagination into play. By filling in the gaps of what we don’t see, the audience is able visualise the situation and react to them based on what is presented. On another note, “breaking the 4th wall” is a concept that has been severely overused in the film industry. I’ve always believed that it can go two ways: either the director loses the audience by reminding them that they are only watching a film, or the audience is invited to become more involved & intrigued in the situation the film sets up. Funny Games is an example of a film that uses this method effectively, and for a purpose. By doing this, Haneke guides the audience’s attention to the realization that what we are watching is not going to go the way we hope. In an era so filled with genre-cliches, predictability is a factor that audience members tend to critique very quickly. In ignoring these cliches, Haneke manages to portray a world that might feel absurd at first, but is indeed a reflection of the brutal reality we live in. This makes both versions of Funny Games a truly unsettling experience. Nothing can express my love for these two gems directed by Michael Haneke. #michaelhaneke #funnygames #funnygamesus #cinema #german #naomiwatts #timroth #michaelpitt https://www.instagram.com/p/BsiLw7fFtfS/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=ima8mx5n4z8j
