Chainsaws were singing

Director Sander Maran's Chainsaws Were Singing is a daring cinematic experiment that blends musical theater, horror themes and slapstick comedy in a chaotic Estonian work. The film's absurdity puts it in a class of its own, making it as polarizing as it is memorable. With performances by Laura Niils, Karl-Joosep Ilves, Martin Ruus, Janno Puusepp and Rita Rätsepp, this film is a celebration of DIY cinema, characterized by wild ambition and unpredictable storytelling.

Chainsaws Were Singing resembles an unholy marriage of Cannibal! The Musical and The Texas Chainsaw Massacre. From the very first scene, the film announces itself with a joyous splash of blood and country humor. Maria, played by Laura Niils, undergoes a series of unfortunate events - she loses her family, her dog and her job - before fate reunites her with Tom, played by Karl-Joosep Ilves, a man on the verge of taking his own life. The couple's brief romance is hilariously interrupted by Martin Ruus' “killer”, a chainsaw-wielding psychopath with an affinity for floral contemplation. This sudden clash of romance and violence sets the tone for the film's two-hour running time.

Laura Niils lends Maria surprising emotional depth, while navigating slapstick moments and over-the-top situations. Karl-Joosep Ilves plays a charmingly hapless Tom, whose quest to save Maria is both heroic and farcical. Jaan, Janno Puusepp's eccentric sidekick, adds levity with his deadpan humor and unwavering optimism. As for Martin Ruus' killer, he's surprisingly complex: he's both a vicious murderer and a misunderstood artist, with a poignant story delivered in one of the film's best musical numbers. Finally, Rita Rätsepp dominates the screen as Killer's abusive mother, embodying the quintessential domineering matriarch with a touch of comic menace.

One of the most striking elements of Chainsaws Were Singing is its musical ambition. Although the film doesn't feature as many songs as its premise promises, the tracks it does feature are memorable and add a touch of originality. The remarkable chainsaw solo, performed by Martin Ruus, illustrates the offbeat humor and creative spirit of the film. These musical interludes, often satirical in nature, reinforce the absurdity of the story, while offering brief moments of sincerity that hint at deeper themes such as love, loss and identity. Sander Maran's DIY approach is evident in every frame, from the inventive camerawork to the practical gore effects. The bloody set-pieces range from hilariously grotesque to ingenious, underlining Maran's commitment to his craft. Despite the film's low budget, its visual storytelling impresses, with sequences such as Maria's luminous prison lament or the film's descent into black-and-white cinematography showcasing Maran's technical expertise.

Humor is the lifeblood of Chainsaws Were Singing, but it's also its Achilles' heel. The film revels in absurdity, from a Bukkake cult to incestuous twins, delivering jokes that range from the audaciously funny to the downright sickening. Sander Maran's script is full of acerbic, satirical commentary on horror conventions, but occasionally veers into territory that seems too indulgent or unnecessarily vulgar. The comedy's pace is uneven, and sequences such as Jaan's lengthy misadventures in the forest or Killer's interminable massacres sometimes overstay their welcome. At nearly two hours, the film's frenetic energy begins to falter under its own weight, leaving viewers waiting for a tighter, more focused narrative.

Beneath the gore and gags lies a serious exploration of humanity. The relationship between Tom and Maria, though absurdly rushed, brings a tender heart to the story. Similarly, Martin Ruus' portrayal of Killer transforms him from a simple caricature into a tragic figure shaped by a cycle of abuse and violence. These moments of emotion, though few and far between, ground the film and elevate it above mere parody.

Ultimately, Chainsaws Were Singing is a tribute to the creativity and passion of independent cinema. The ten-year production journey reflects the dedication of Sander Maran, who wears many hats - director, composer, cinematographer and more - to bring his vision to life. The result is a personal, handcrafted film, every eccentric detail of which testifies to a deep love of the genre.

Chainsaws Were Singing is not for everyone. Its blend of gore, musical comedy and irreverent humor will alienate as many viewers as it excites. However, for those who can embrace its chaotic energy and relentless absurdity, it is a singular cinematic experience. Sander Maran has created a film as imperfect as it is brilliant - an imperfect gem that celebrates the joys of storytelling and the unbridled possibilities of DIY cinema. If nothing else, Chainsaws Were Singing confirms its place as a cult classic in the making.

Chainsaws Were Singing
Written and directed by Sander Maran
Produced by Jan Andresson, Karl Ilves, Peeter Maran, Sander Maran
Starring Karl Ilves, Laura Niils, Martin Ruus, Janno Puusepp, Rita Rätsepp
Cinematography : Sander Maran
Edited by Sander Maran
Production companies : Marani Bros
Distributed by NC
Release date : NC
Running time : 117 minutes

Viewed September 23, 2024 (Fantastic Fest press screening)

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