Review of Kids

Introduction

Kids is one of the most controversial movie in recent years - not only for it’s subject matter, but also it has polarised peoples’ opinions. These opinions differ on whether Kids is a brutally realistic masterpiece, or instead a depressing, sickening film with no social commentary and exploits the subject matter`s shock value. Either way, I suggest that you see this movie: even if you hate Kids, it is one of the most important movies of the decade.

Video

The picture here is in 1.85 widescreen, but the transfer is sadly far from pristine. Although the film was made recently in 1995, the colours are muted and the picture not sharp at all. However, I must say that the grainy nature of the print does highlight the documentary style of the film. But there is much room for improvement to show the capabilities of DVD.

Audio

Again, only a bargain basement 2.0 mix. The dialogue is clear enough, but clearly not much effort was put into this.

Features

No extras except for a trailer. This film is crying out for a commentary, which could have the ability to be as controversial as the film itself. If any cutting-room material exists, it would also be great to see this on DVD.

Conclusion

As for my opinion on Kids, I am in the ‘for’ camp. I think this is one of the bravest movies in the last decade, and it almost too accurately portrays the darker side of modern teenage life. As the tagline goes: this is a day where everything and yet nothing will change. A young Chloe Sevigny is excellent as the moral centrepoint, and so are the two depraved male leads. One of the main criticisms of Kids is that it lacks a strong moral message – essential for a film that deals with such controversial issues as pre-teen sex, drugs and AIDS. However, I think the whole film is expressed best with the poignant last line of bewilderment and realisation from Justin Pierce, who tragically committed suicide a few years later:

“Jesus Christ, what happened?”

As for the DVD, it is unfortunately very poor. But at least it fills time whilst we wait for a Special Edition, if one will ever be made. Note: the UK version is cut by about a minute from the US cut, although fortunately no plot points are missed out. I would recommend you only buy this disc if you have seen the film and liked it: otherwise you could end up with a nasty shock from what is undoubtedly a very disturbing movie.