I Like It Rough

A short adult dark comedy from Ireland written and directed by Natasja Schaafsma and starring herself and Keith Anthony Murphy.

A young couple, consisting of Ciara (Schaafsma) and Jordan (Murphy) enter a bedroom, hugging and kissing and it is obvious that things are going to get much more intimate. Things to go further, however not in a way one would expect. Ciara states that she likes it rough and she seems to be literal as she encourages Jordan to physically harm her and she reciprocates.

A situation begins with romantic expectations before becoming a wrestling match. Over the course of approximately three minutes, the couple punch, kick and throw each other around, whether on the bed or around the bedroom. And the use of a dildo as a weapon occurs as well and so do attacks to the groin. Just adding that both participants are fully clothed.

It is crucial to acknowledge that this activity is consensual and both characters are participating in their own free will. The comedy comes in the form of the performances and the fighting, the choreography of which is credited to the work of James Cosgrave. Ciara is the one who seems to be enjoying this...unusual occurrence and it is evident that it was her idea. She grins as she strikes and seems to enjoy being hurt. The same could not be said about Jordan who is hesitant and does not appear to be taking a liking to physical pain. Nevertheless, the fight goes on, accompanied by amusing music by Nelson M. Olivares Alfaro.

The fun is not restricted to the brawling, with the cheeky opening and closing credits adding to the humour and there are plenty of cartoonish sound effects when strikes occur.

So what does the content of this film mean? It seems to be exploring unconventional sexual desires, particularly sexual gratification via violence, maybe sadomasochism? As an intended sexual encounter turns into a fight where receiving and inficting pain is being playfully enjoyed, this viewing could be perceived as a comedic commentary about this derivation of pleasure.

Two youths beat each other up in a comical fashion. Sex and violence. A fun adult comedy, although some people might find the violence uncomfortable.