Bruce LaBruce's film 'The Visitor' premieres in U.S
The new film, The Visitor, by director Bruce LaBruce has arrived in U.S. theaters after premiering at the Berlin Film Festival. LaBruce is known for creating provocative art, and this film is no exception. It boldly critiques fascism and wealth while using shocking themes like unsimulated sex and incest. The Visitor tells the story of a mysterious refugee who washes up on the shores of the River Thames in London. He soon becomes involved with a rich family seeking help in their home. Each family member, including the father, mother, son, and daughter, is drawn to the visitor and gets involved in sexually explicit encounters with him. The film is notable for its minimal dialogue and lengthy sex scenes, accompanied by energetic techno music. Messages and slogans flash on-screen, cleverly mixing shock with political commentary. For example, during a scene between the visitor and the mother, the words "Open Borders, Open Legs" appear, highlighting the family's hypocrisy as they enjoy the company of a refugee while promoting anti-immigrant views. As the story progresses, it delves into more taboo subjects, including incestuous relationships within the family. LaBruce intentionally uses these scenes not for arousal but to critique societal norms and reveal the contradictions of the wealthy. The film pushes boundaries and challenges traditional family structures. While it may be extremely explicit, The Visitor serves as a reflection on contemporary issues—class, power, and morality. LaBruce draws inspiration from influential filmmaker Pier Paolo Pasolini, who similarly used provocative content to criticize fascism and societal hypocrisy. Overall, The Visitor is described as a disturbing yet thought-provoking film that confronts dark themes in a unique way.