Review: ‘The Greasy Strangler’ Is Disgusting, Deviant And Pleasurably Weird At Heart

Cinema history is marked by the efforts of a few genuine provocateurs, and many would-be shock purveyors. But based on his latest feature, director Jim Hosking (“The ABCs of Death 2”) may have precisely the knack to create the uncomfortable, even vile visions required to step out into the front rank of true freaks.

"The Greasy Strangler," which debuted in the Midnight section at Sundance 2016, would feel outré in in any collection of audacious, boundary-busting films. It has roots in the patience-testing comedy of Tim and Eric, and 1990s alt-comics such as early issues of “Eightball” by Dan Clowes and Dave Cooper's sweat-drenched “Weasel.” Constructed around three performances that display an utter lack of physical caution, this is a flatulent, filthy, and trying relationship comedy with every corner pushed beyond extremes. If “Barton Fink” was made by John Waters, this is the sort of movie he'd write.

Picture this: an old man bellows as car-wash...