UGLY,THE

The Ugly is a relatively unknown New Zealand psycho horror film from 1997. A psychologist is sent to a psychiatric hospital at the request of a notorious serial killer. Simon is considered the most dangerous man in the hospital and is under restraints at all times and this new female shrink attempts unravel his mind . He wants to share his story and the film recalls his life. From a tormented child who suffered a life of school yard bullying and an abusive mother to an adult who is overlooked and ignored. As the film's title suggests, the movie is an allusion to The Ugly Duckling. At the time of its release the film received a lot of acclaim and first time director, Scott Reynolds, was touted as an up-and-comer. Sadly he's done very little since. Such a shame too because The Ugly is a highly original film which offers a surreal and unsettling vision. One oddly effective theme is the bloodshed. Simon's murders are brutal and graphic, however all of the blood is black. There isn't a drop of red to be seen. This has generated a lot of discussion and opinions amongst audiences but my interpretation is that he no longer see's people as human... that our blood is simply the oil that keeps the machine going. The use of shadows, colours and silhouettes is also effective and The Ugly stands out as a unique New Zealand flick. If you ever come across it, give it a go. It's pretty chilling stuff.

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