The dark allure of true crime: A deep dive into ‘Red Rooms’
The unsettling fascination with serial killers
There’s an undeniable quease factor in society’s obsession with serial killers. This fascination often transcends mere curiosity about the crimes themselves, morphing into a morbid fixation on the perpetrators. How many times do we need to see dramatizations of figures like Jeffrey Dahmer or Ted Bundy? At some point, it becomes a grotesque form of entertainment, exploiting real-life horror for an insatiable audience.
‘Red Rooms’: A chilling exploration of obsession
Facing this phenomenon head-on is the French-language film Red Rooms, which has recently made its way to U.S. theaters. Directed by Pascal Plante, this film delves into the disturbing world of trial “groupies”—individuals who are inexplicably drawn to the courtroom drama surrounding heinous crimes. The story centers on Kelly-Anne, a fashion model who becomes engrossed in the trial of Ludovic Chevalier, a man accused of the brutal deaths of teenage girls.
A different kind of horror
Unlike most serial killer films, Red Rooms refrains from showing any violence. Instead, it creates a diseased psychological atmosphere that focuses on the parasitic obsession of spectators. This approach makes the film even more unsettling, as it forces viewers to confront their own morbid curiosity.
The enigmatic Kelly-Anne
Kelly-Anne, portrayed by Juliette Gariepy, is introduced sleeping outside a courtroom, eager to secure a seat for the trial. Despite her successful career and luxurious apartment, she is inexplicably drawn to the case. The accused, Ludovic Chevalier, is a man who allegedly kidnapped, tortured, and killed three teenage girls, filming the acts for an audience on the dark web.
The courtroom drama
In the courtroom, Chevalier remains silent and unreactive, while his defense lawyer attempts to cast doubt on the overwhelming circumstantial evidence. The prosecutor, on the other hand, spares no detail in describing the horrific crimes, causing visible distress among the victims’ families.
The unlikely friendship
Kelly-Anne’s presence in the courtroom is initially puzzling. She seems to be more than just a gawker, especially when she befriends Clementine, a young woman who believes in Chevalier’s innocence. Despite their differences, the two form a bond, with Kelly-Anne offering Clementine a place to stay.
A deeper dive into the dark web
As the trial progresses, it becomes clear that Kelly-Anne has her own dark secrets. She spends an unhealthy amount of time on the dark web, dabbling in gambling and cryptocurrency. Her obsession with the case and her online activities raise questions about her true motivations.
The psychological toll
The film’s climax reveals a major twist that leaves viewers questioning Kelly-Anne’s true nature. Is she as empty and soulless as she appears? Is her involvement in the criminal underground a way to feel alive? The film leaves these questions unanswered, adding to its unsettling atmosphere.
The power of suggestion
One of the most chilling scenes in Red Rooms involves characters watching a video of the crimes. The audience only hears the audio, which is excruciating. Kelly-Anne’s blank expression as she watches the video for the umpteenth time is more disturbing than any graphic depiction could be. This sequence relies on the power of suggestion, making it more skin-crawling than the goriest horror film.
A masterful production
Red Rooms excels in creating a mood of elegant claustrophobia, amplified by Vincent Biron’s cinematography and Dominique Plante’s ominous score. The film’s antiseptic settings, from the all-white courtroom to Kelly-Anne’s featureless apartment, heighten the sense of unease.
Final thoughts
Red Rooms is a thought-provoking film that forces viewers to confront their own fascination with true crime. It offers a unique perspective on the psychological toll of such obsessions, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre. For those intrigued by the dark allure of true crime, Red Rooms provides a chilling and unforgettable experience.
For more information and to watch the trailer, visit the Red Rooms page.