on THE REVENANT (2015, 156 minutes, R)
The Quick of It -
There are those films that are released during
the course of the year that seem like they are flying under the radar, not as
hyped as the superhero or summer blockbuster flicks. And some those quiet steppers find themselves treading towards
the 'big-boy awards' waters. THE
REVENANT is one of those films, and it is not surprising.
Director Alejandro González Iñárritu has taken
on the more artsy projects like BIRDMAN, BABEL, and BUITIFUL in the past. THE REVENANT sits oh so close but offers
more to a broader audience. Based in
part on a novel by Michael Punke, this film resonated with me much like other
atmospheric films like THE GREY and APOCALYPTO. Cinematographer Emmanuel Lubezki who is known for a long list of
credits, to include GRAVITY and SLEEPY HOLLOW, does not falter when given a man
vs. environment project, that find a way visually to accentuate the way of life
in this period piece.
There have been many (probably too many to be
comfortable with) films that I would have put on the short list to be
recognized by the industry and not make the cut. This is not one of those that has fallen to snobbish arrogance or
good ol' boy favoritism, and I am thankful for that. I only had to see the trailer to know what I was in store for and
was treated with much more. I will say
that I wished it had a little dash of mysticism sprinkled in concerning the
lore of a revenant and leaving it more open for discussion, but I'll deal.
The acting across the board is fantastic and
riveting, you are not once pulled out of the setting for this long
run-time. And I will admit that Mr.
DiCaprio was not an actor I respected, until I saw him in SHUTTER ISLAND and
INCEPTION, and retraced him back to BLOOD DIAMOND and some of his other earlier
work. Tom Hardy has had my attention
since INCEPTION and WARRIOR. Under
their shadows in this film is Will Poulter creeping out (using that phrase as
he is to be Pennywise in the upcoming IT) to make his youthful way in Hollywood
and leave his mark here.
I am grateful that this film is receiving the
attention it deserves. You should rush
out and see THE REVENANT on the big screen while you can, to be sure to get the
full experience. The bear scene alone
is a must.
Grade: A
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