Is Submit to Me Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (1986)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

Debuting in 1986, Submit to Me represents a sophisticated intersection of artistic ambition and genre-defining elements within the Horror category. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into Cinema of Transgression pioneers and participants (Lydia Lunch, Lung Leg, Nick Zedd, etc. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Horror are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "Cinema of Transgression pioneers and participants (Lydia Lunch, Lung Leg, Nick Zedd, etc.) perform a series of acts as they submit to director Richard Kern's camera. Originally created for DTNY acid parties; Submit to Me was eventually edited down to 10 minutes and given an accompanying score."

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. While the script occasionally leans into familiar territory, the efforts of Adrienne Altenhaus ensure that the emotional beats of Submit to Me always land with sufficient weight. Adrienne Altenhaus provides a steady, reliable performance that anchors the film through its narrative shifts.

The direction by Richard Kern is marked by a steady and professional hand. From a production standpoint, the film meets the high standards of modern industrial filmmaking. The sets are well-crafted, and the visual effects are integrated with a level of polish that ensures the viewer matches the director's intended level of immersion. While perhaps not groundbreaking, the execution is flawless. The pacing, over its 10 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is Submit to Me truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Horror, then this is a worthwhile watch if you have a specific interest in the themes or the performers involved.

The film's ability to perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 5.1/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, Submit to Me explores the dichotomy of fear and discovery. The 1986 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Richard Kern respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, Submit to Me is an interesting experiment that, while flawed, offers enough moments of creative spark to be worth a casual glance for the curious. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Adrienne Altenhaus or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, Submit to Me is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.