An extremely disturbing film for multiple reasons: a) the director has chosen to show us the violence and its sexual associations vividly. Some would call this exploitive, but I'm sure the director had his reasons for making this choice. Many other directors have chosen explicit shots to capture the real horror of it, so that we can't whitewash it. It's disturbing nonetheless, because it offers the opportunity for exploitation. Note that the vivid visuals apply not just to the attacks, but also to the punishment. b) the mass religious movement, that we also see in America lately, to label some people sinners who do not deserve to live. Horrifying. This is not just an indictment of Iranian society or extreme Islam; it is an indictment of American religious extremists who feel the same way c) the passing on of such extremist thinking to children, so that the violence never ends. It's not that this topic has not been filmed often before. Does this film add anything? Probably the movie is most valuable in its depiction of how the greater society can embrace this kind of horror

I saw this film by chance, and it was a pleasant surprise. Holy Spider is tense and uncomfortable to watch as it aptly uses its fact-based source material to create a bone-chilling thriller. The cast was phenomenal as every actor convincingly played their role and made it effortless to connect with their characters. Not every day a foreign film captivates me, but this one's truly well-made.

doesn’t do a whole lot to differentiate itself from the usual serial killer thriller. regarding the onscreen violence, i’m not really sure where i stand. for the most part, within the visual medium of film, people would rather be shown than told. however, it does seem that there are certain realities that this doesn’t apply to. are these scenes made for the entertainment of the sociopath or for the depiction of the truth? it’s a delicate balance that this film isn’t able to achieve.

Although it has all the ingredients of a standard police thriller, what emerged in the end was certainly shocking and escaped the limits of conventionality. The particular cultural setting in which the story unfolds makes the movie even more rewarding to watch.

Unnecessarily lurid at points but its criticisms are appropriately angry.

Knockout film with a bold premise and perfect acting. I enjoyed it from start to finish. I will say that the final scenes felt a bit dull after the racy murder-mystery at the start, but the non-plotted and rather documentary way they were done was interesting and revealed a lot about the Iranian judicial system.

Really excellent, nothing to say

In this review, I would like to express my appreciation for the captivating story while acknowledging the potential for further character depth. The narrative had its merits, yet I couldn't help but feel a longing for more insight into the characters' backgrounds and motivations. The story itself was undeniably intriguing, captivating my attention from the beginning and holding it throughout. The plotline unfolded with a sense of mystery and tension, keeping me engaged and curious about the outcome. The pacing was generally well-maintained, with notable moments of suspense and excitement. However, where the story fell slightly short was in the development of its characters. While the main characters, such as Zahra and Saeed, played pivotal roles, I found myself yearning for a deeper understanding of their backgrounds and motivations. Specifically, the journalist Zahra's presence on the case remained a bit unclear, leaving me somewhat confused about her true motives and intentions. Furthermore, the character of Saeed, despite his importance to the story, lacked sufficient exploration of his childhood experiences. A more in-depth examination of his past could have added layers to his persona, thereby enhancing the overall impact of the narrative.In conclusion, while the story presented an amazing premise and kept me engrossed until the end, it left room for further character development. A deeper exploration of Zahra's motivations and Saeed's childhood would have added layers to their personas, enhancing the overall impact of the narrative. Additionally, the middle section could have benefitted from a more dynamic plot progression. Nonetheless, the story's strengths outweighed its weaknesses, making it a worthwhile experience.

It's a good watch, Ali Agassi keeps the pacing steady, from a crime story dominated by religious fanaticism, a crusade against sex workers, a jihad on morality, it's not the who but the why that is most terrifying. In the dismaying third act, the murderer gets eventually elevated to a champion, in a culture rife of misogyny and conservative ideology.

With the seamless performances of the cast the Holy Spider takes a radical look at the social trends, culture, policing and religion. When the story considered the mood is not that of Hollywood style. It's rawness is what induces the nauseating effect of heinous crimes we see a bored mental patient commits. Visuals are sharp and precise. The cinematic take is powerful enough to make anyone reconsider their notions about underprivileged. The political read is extremely well-done. It shows how Saeed becomes a vessel for his society's hate. Description on societal nativity is excellent. Holy Spider is a different way of looking at the known ugliness.

One of the best surprises of the year, in my opinion. Incredible script, direction and cast. The story, for being very close to reality, makes the film even more shocking. Even now, I'm thinking about that ending. Another positive point is that the film, from the beginning, reveals who its serial killer is, avoiding any cliché. One of the best movies I've ever watched. I recommend!

Was more that i spected. Well done, excellent thriller and gives a little bit perspective about that marginalized sector and social problems against a fact problem

روایت واقعی و بدون سانسور

MUST SEE. Should not be ignored. 'Devout Muslim' becomes serial killer of Prostitutes in an Iranian 'Holy City'. I wonder how any obviously promiscuous woman, especially 'sex workers' could even dare to survive in Iran, famous for its 'morality police' who would WHIP them on sight. With the approval and funding of the ruling regime. Well, he is finally caught, and is surprised by the widespread support of street demonstrators, and even the authorities. This may offend CAIR and Muslims. For more listen to my audio notes. Saw it jan 24, 2023 'lerton AMC

Incredible, a powerful, smart and breathtaking film! The actors are amazing, especially now the movie has even more relevance if you want to understand the struggle of the Iranian people.

Achei o filme bem fraco no enredo e muitas cenas indignantes de tão mal feitas. As atuções foram satisfatórias. Mas é aquele tipo de filme que as pessoas parecem retardadas. Tipo que "caem quando estão fugindo" ou que mesmo com um corpo enrolado no tapete ninguém se liga...

Zar Amir-Ebrahimi is unforgettable as Rahimi, a journalist investigating a serial killer in Iran. I highly recommend this film.

very slow and boring 😴

Holy Spider is an extraordinary movie. One is surprised to see a killer who doesn't dress cool, doesn't have artistic moves, and doesn't smoke under a street lamp at night. This murderer in the movie is our real world. A realistic and impressive movie.

Excellent cinematography, acting. I was impressed by how they depicted the city of Mashhad in Iran in the early 2000s, so accurately