Irreversible(Irréversible)

Slate by David Edelstein

The 12 scenes of Irreversible--each shot in a single, semi-improvised take--constitute something of a tour de force. But so would being dragged through the streets by a wire noose.

Dallas Observer by Gregory Weinkauf

What isn't hard to say is that Noé really isn't a very talented filmmaker.

Wall Street Journal by Joe Morgenstern

To get to the beginning, one must first get through the end, which is almost literally unendurable.

Chicago Reader by Jonathan Rosenbaum

Stupid, vicious, and pretentious, though you may find it worth checking out if you want to experiment with your own nervous system.

Charlotte Observer by Lawrence Toppman

About halfway through Irreversible comes the longest sustained act of violence I've seen onscreen.

Baltimore Sun by Michael Sragow

Irreversible, though, is not a Kubrickian head trip. All Noe has come up with is a turn-on for sadists.

Chicago Sun-Times by Roger Ebert

The fact is, the reverse chronology makes Irreversible a film that structurally argues against rape and violence, while ordinary chronology would lead us down a seductive narrative path toward a shocking, exploitative payoff.

Portland Oregonian by Shawn Levy

Made with disarming craft and cunning. Intermixed in the memories it leaves of horror and disgust are glimpses of impressive technique and savvy psychological insight.

Philadelphia Inquirer by Steven Rea

Maybe, you think, there is something daring and brilliant going on here: an excursion into the darkest territories of the human soul. But no. In the end -- or the beginning -- there is no point to all this. Or at least not a point worth making, and making us watch.

Film Threat by Tim Merrill

Anyone with a weak heart or a queasy stomach should stay away. In fact, most everyone everywhere should stay away. But if you still want to see Irreversible, be prepared to see images that will upset and disturb you for a long, long time. Be prepared to be shaken to the very core.