31 Days of Halloween: Human Centipede

The Human Centipede (First Sequence) is a film that should work only as a cheap gross-out gimmick. It’s not a particularly deep film and not a lot really happens during its hour and a half run time. However, for what it’s trying to do, it succeeds and even rises above its exploitive nature thanks to a lean run time and a compelling performance by Dieter Laser.

This is the epitome of divisive filmmaking. A lot of people actually hate this film, and I don’t blame them. It’s short on plot and dialogue. The subject is extremely disturbing. There are gaps in logic (how does Dr. Heiter get his subjects to his living room after surgery?). Director Tom Six makes all this work with deliberate pacing, wonderful cinematography and a standout performance by Dieter Laser as Dr. Heiter.

The Human Centipede isn’t for everyone. It’s not a particularly good film and as a narrative, it suffers greatly. But, I couldn’t take my eyes off the screen and was strangely compelled and riveted. I may never watch Human Centipede again, and judging from how this film wraps up, have no idea how they’re able to do a sequel. If you’re a fan of horror at least give this a shot, if anything just to see Dieter Laser’s outstanding performance.