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The Heart Is Deceitful Above All Things
User Score
6.3 out of 10

Generally favorable reviews- based on 13 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 9 out of 13
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 13
  3. Negative: 4 out of 13

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  1. ElyseS.
    Apr 30, 2006
    9
    i'm really surprised at all the horrible reviews. i can see that asia argento's performance is exhibitionistic, she does steal many scenes and it's obvious that she revels in playing a southern junkie punk whore type. and it does sort of make a caricature of the sick side of america. but this doesn't sum up the movie. it isn't merely exploitative, "look we show white trash life, immoral bible belt-ers and child molestation". the enviornment doesn't detract from the empathy we have for jeremiah. his scenes- especially his fantasies and shots of him by himself- reveal his confusion, fear, anger, and emptiness brilliantly. and if you understand abuse you know just what he feels like. sarah's relationship with him is fascinating, she loves him as best as she can for being as selfish and morally shaky as she is. the music is amazing, and the ending is strangely triumphant. please see it and judge for yourselves, it seems like the subtleties were lost on the critics. this isn't a white-trash exploitation flick, if you like films that make you empathize then you will pick up a lot more from this movie.… Expand
    • 1 of 1 users said yes
  2. cj
    Jan 4, 2007
    8
    I enjoyed it greatly, idk why everyone is giving it such bad reviews...the acting for the most part is solid, especially for the children (although the sprouses show none of that on The Suite LIfe...which is still awesome....) and the plot is based on an excellent novel. The poor production and choppy editing and music choices bring it down a bit though. Not a movie for the fainthearted or easily disturbed.… Expand
    • 1 of 1 users said yes
  3. RandyO.
    Apr 19, 2006
    8
    It's a disturbing little film, that surprisingly exhibits what could be the most disturbing scene in the film in a clever, smart and "tasteful" way. The result has an even stronger affect than if the scene had been shown explicitly, like every other scene in the film. Asia's not the most winning actress, but her sure hand behind the camera attests that she has her father's genes, though not his style. No vituoso camera moves here, or artisitc use of color. Just an in-your-face griminess that packs a genuine wallop of depression at moments. I really really liked this film, as it is unlike any other I could name. Not since the bird/fish romance scene in "Xanadu" have I been so caught off guard by a sudden use of animation. But, as in that film, it works, and gives a mood and a voice to the film that's disconcerting while carrying it into an almost subconcious realm. The only thing that keeps this film from being a "10" is the spotty acting. If anyone has ever doubted that Winonna Ryder has run out of that little bit of talent she ever had, it will be confirmed here, where her cameo almost brings the film to a screeching halt. Only the camera work, representing the child's visual attention,( abrilliantly observed bit) saves the scene from Ryder's cartooninshness. And Asia's main credit as an actress is that she is soooo willing to portray such an unredeemable character. Julia Roberts or Reese Witherspoon don't have the chops or bravery to go where this main character goes. And they never will.… Expand
    • 1 of 1 users said yes
  4. ChrisD.
    Sep 29, 2006
    7
    While the movie is based on a hoax, it is a sick twisted ride that will leave you imagining all of the scum that resides in this world. The movie is a great but very depressing film if you can make it all of the way though. A good portion of the cast does very well and makes their characters very convincing. Especially noted are: the twins, Bennet, Manson, and Fonda. I really didn't think Asia did a bad job either. I recommend it for anyone who thinks they can manage to make it. But if you expect to feel any bit of happiness or joy throughout the course of the movie, you'll be disappointed.… Expand
    • 1 of 1 users said yes
  5. HarmonyK
    Nov 8, 2006
    0
    A sick joke. This empty commercial is an insult to her father. Dario Argento was a man who had a vision, followed that vision and made some of the best movies of the past century. Asia Argento is a Michael Pitt tag along who wore out her welcome years ago.
    • 0 of 2 users said yes
  6. Miang
    Mar 24, 2012
    10
    Greatly enjoyable. I liked every bit of this movie. Asia Argento, in my opinion, made a masterpiece. I simply do not understand the Critic reviews -well most of them-. This movie is a very good reality check. Do not hesitate to watch it. However, if you do not like movies about children being put in danger and into abuse I advise you not to watch it.
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Critic Reviews

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Metascore
27 out of 100

Generally unfavorable - based on 22 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 3 out of 22
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 22
  3. Negative: 16 out of 22
  1. The New Yorker
    Reviewed by: Anthony Lane
    20
    The whole enterprise heaves and strains with a sadistic overkill that even Dario might find too rich.
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  2. Film Threat
    Reviewed by: Greg Bellavia
    90
    Not a film for everyone. If you are squeamish about children being placed in danger then do not see this film.
    Read full review
  3. The Hollywood Reporter
    Reviewed by: Duane Byrge
    0
    Inspirationally impaired and dramatically retarded.
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