Irréversible (2002)

 

Events over the course of one traumatic night in Paris unfold in reverse-chronological order as the beautiful Alex is brutally raped and beaten by a stranger in the underpass.

If you reverse a maddening downward spiral, here's proof that it doesn't go upward; aside the two controversial scenes, this film (albeit directed with quite some talent) still emanates a so thoroughly nihilistic view of mankind that it feels superficial and unconvincing.

Halliwell*: "There is something so brutalist and miserablist about Noé's view of the world that it can seem ludicrous, but not here: with a ferocious murder followed by a vicious rape, both shown in all their horror, this can be a shattering experience that offers no hope for humanity."

Maltin*1/2: ""Controversial does not begin to describe this ugly, over-the-top rape-and-revenge tale, told in reverse a la MEMENTO, ...Graphically violent, even by contemporary standards, this glorified exploitation film features an extended rape sequence and brutal murder that's hard to stomach. Though gimmicky and repugnant, some will admire the film for its audacity." 

Child 44 (2015)

A disgraced member of the Russian military police investigates a series of child murders during the Stalin-era Soviet Union.

An interesting topic is spoilt by an overladen plot with a cop on the run from the government and at the same time investigating a suppressed serial killer murder series, romance and personal intrigues included.

Eastern Promises (2007)

A Russian teenager living in London who dies during childbirth leaves clues to a midwife in her journal that could tie her child to a rape involving a violent Russian mob family.

Dark, intense and atmospheric gangster movie thate seems to transcend the genre with its brilliant direction and fantastic cast, but also doesn't shy away from moments of sentimentality.

Maltin***: "Intelligent thriller set against a rich tableau...Mortensen is superb and has one unforgettable scene in a Turkish bathhouse."

Sheitan (2006)

A group of youngsters go out to a disco late one night and accidentally run into a shepherd who has prepared himself for a night of Satanic worship.

Over-the-top and weird low budget horror thriller that successfully plays with the audience's expectations, but somehow doesn't add up to be a coherent movie.