Les Chambres Rouges (Red Rooms)

Film Review: Les Chambres Rouges (Red Rooms) (2023) Directed by Pascal Plante | Starring Juliette Gariépy, Laurie Babin

Pascal Plante’s Les Chambres Rouges (Red Rooms)

is a haunting psychological thriller that delivers a deeply unsettling exploration of human obsession and morality, wrapped in impeccable craftsmanship. Anchored by a mesmerizing performance from Juliette Gariépy as Kelly-Anne, the film ventures into dark thematic territory, tackling the voyeuristic allure of internet snuff films. However, it does so with remarkable restraint, sidestepping gratuitous violence in favor of intense character-driven storytelling.

From the outset,

the film’s visual language is striking. The opening courtroom sequence is a masterclass in cinematography, with its deliberate framing and fluid camera movements immersing viewers in the tension of the trial. Plante’s direction is bolstered by exceptional sound design, which subtly amplifies the unease without resorting to overt shock tactics. The film’s atmosphere is thick with dread, yet it remains disturbingly quiet — a choice that proves far more chilling than any explicit gore could achieve.

Contrary to what its premise might suggest,

Les Chambres Rouges refuses to indulge in graphic displays of violence. While the subject matter revolves around the dark corners of the internet, the film keeps its horrors largely off-screen, focusing instead on the psychological ramifications of voyeurism and obsession. This artistic choice may leave gore enthusiasts unsatisfied, but it elevates the film beyond the trappings of “torture porn” and into more cerebral territory.

At its core,

the film is a character study — an unsettling dive into the psyche of Kelly-Anne, whose fixation on a notorious trial reveals more about her own fractured identity than the crimes being prosecuted. Laurie Babin’s portrayal of Clementine adds another layer of intrigue, creating a dynamic that feels both intimate and menacing.

While

the film’s deliberate pacing and introspective narrative may alienate those seeking visceral thrills, Les Chambres Rouges rewards viewers who appreciate psychological depth and auteur-driven filmmaking. It’s a gem of contemporary Canadian cinema, offering a chilling reflection on the boundaries of morality, media consumption, and human curiosity.

For those willing to embrace its slow-burn intensity, Les Chambres Rouges is a thought-provoking triumph. But it’s not for everyone — and it’s all the better for it.

For more information see the IMDb entry for Les Chambers Rouges.