Isn't the concept of religion something very self-serious? Wouldn't preachers crucify Christ in their sermons, describing it with such slow painful words that make audience flinch? We obviously have problem with the subject matter. We can't take it. It's all loaded. We simply can't look at objectively.



It certainly stands out. But other than that, what do we learn about their culture or customs? They could be any tribe, anywhere in the world. It merely passes as more authentic.



From those you mention I think I've seen "The Texas Chain Saw Massacre," but don't remember much. I remember Irreversible though. I've to say I simply disagree when you put Munich as pornographic, but Irreversible as genuine portray of pain and violence. To me it is quite the opposite, though you put your finger on a very interesting scene at Munich that felt artificial to me as well. I also agree that Spielberg uses emotional manipulation, but how else would you make viewers feel what an assassin would feel in course of a long time with what you have to offer in course of a couple of hours?

Of course Munich is emotional manipulation, compared to Irreversible that's merely projection of violence and serves little to take you anywhere; it is so abstract and detached.



I've heard a great deal about this one. But isn't a bit strange comparing an animation to technical aspects of Munich? At any case, thanks for sharing your thoughts. Spielberg has always felt artificial and detached to me. This was the closest emotional experience for me among his movies.