This is a tough film to review, as it does everything in its power to deter, dismiss, and disappoint its audience. The truth is, however, that it does do something far more compelling: It remains compelling and does not broadcast a message, it forces you to experience it.
The story is of course disturbing and distressing, extremely strong performances, and highlights the fleeting boundary between reality and fiction. Overall it's a artistic-horror-thriller, raising many serious questions about violence.
I found myself sympathizing for the main victim in this film played by an unknown and exceptional young actress. She was constantly put in further peril for the sake of "entertainment". And for this reason, I was completely enthralled. I was glued to the screen, wondering what the group's exact fate was. It was at that point that I realized, the only way to help them is to turn away and leave the rest to my imagination as it becomes extremely clear just where everything is going.
I couldn't though. It may have been my addiction to violent tension, it could have been sheer curiosity, it could have been anything. However, one thing was certain, I could not deter my fascination. As a result, I witnessed bizarre and brutal events at my own expense.
This is not an easy movie to like, but it's almost impossible to not respect the impact it will have on you. The filmmakers of this have enough of a soul to call a spade a spade when they see one. The spade is that senseless violence devoid of context, moralizing, or affect is outright insulting coming from a society that is one, if not the most violent nations in recent history.