Surely there’s no doubt about it: Martyrs is not for everyone. This film is brutal and frightening, features scenes that are difficult to cope with and leaves a tremendous impact. However, Martyrs is certainly not just out to shock. Although this film belongs to the horror genre, in a way it feels quite restrictive to say so, given its unique and unpredictable nature. Director Pascal Laugier feels that horror should act as an experimental playground. Sadly this is hardly ever the case, with many horror films ending up in tired, repetitive swill, without a spark of imagination. Since its premiere screening at Cannes in 2008, Martyrs has been recurring on almost every list of ‘most shocking movies’ since, and the intense debate about its quality has never ceased.

The story starts with Lucie, who is discovered after having disappeared for months without a trace. After being found it’s immediately apparent that intense (physical) abuse took place. However, there is no trace of the culprit, nor any clue why she was abducted. At the orphanage, Lucie meets young Anna, and they develop a very close friendship. Fifteen years down the line, Lucie is convinced that she has found her attackers and is ready to take bloody vengeance. Anna is prepared to stand by Lucie’s side, which
signals the beginning of a living hell.

We from Wansmakelijk Goed adore movies that do not always fit in with the (big) crowd. From horror, to drama, to comedy, from amazingly good to astoundingly bad: all our nights are thematized by ”distaste”. Whether we’re talking about gut-wrenching gore, deliciously dire B movies or those uncomfortable or controversial masterpieces, we love it all and therefore select the most satisfying nourishment for the distaste buds!