The Voices – It’s raining (murderous) cats and dogs

Ryan Reynolds – often thought of as one of those actors who gets by on his looks over his acting ability.  Not true.  He’s actually pretty good (and I’ve been saying that since I saw him in ‘The Nines.’ Here, he plays ‘Jerry’ – a lovable factory worker who everyone gets on with.  Unfortunately –for the afore-mentioned ‘everybody’ – he’s also completely insane.  His primary flaw (besides his traumatic childhood which you’ll learn more about if you watch the film) is that he’s lonely and, because of this, he’s started lying to his psychiatrist about taking his medication.  And, without his pills, he’s started hearing voices.

Throughout the film you’ll see the world through Jerry’s eyes where more than just the TV talks, namely his cat and dog – both of which give him dubious advice to put it mildly.  And, without medication, it’s not long before Jerry’s actions start becoming more and more dark – to the point of murderous.

It would be quiet easy to despise Jerry for his actions, but, as you’ll see, he really is as much of a victim as those who die at his hands.  It’s not so much a case as you’ll be rooting for a killer as you’ll be hoping he finds some sort of happiness (or professional help that actually HELPS him!) in his depressed life.

Plus it’s funny.  Okay, so grisly and horrific murder is never really a laughing matter, but the fact that all the violence is – technically – orchestrated by an evil talking cat and dog does go some way to lighten the mood.  If there is a definition of a ‘black comedy’ then this is definitely it!

You don’t have to like horror or drama, just dark humour.  That’s the key to enjoying this film.  It’s as tragic as it’s funny and there are many occasions where you won’t know whether to laugh or cry.  It’ll never be mainstream as it’s too dark for big screen success.  I advise watching it and then enjoying the fact that you’ll probably be the only person among your circle of friends who’s seen it.  Spread the word – it’s good (gory) fun.

8/10 The Force is definitely strong with this one