The New World
Not your typical hollywood movie. More of an art film or a documentary told from the perspective of different characters. The opening scenes were so full of realism, I was almost afraid for any dialogue to start...that would spoil the feeling. But surprise, the dialogue didn't spoil the realism. Maybe no surprise to those familiar with Malick's work.
This movie will get two responses...those bored to death by the slow pace, little dialogue and little typical movie "action" and those who will love the artistry and loving care given to the characters, the environment and the particular time in history.
This is Pocahontas' story, though it began as John Smith's story. It's Pocahontas who remains the central character throughout. Played with a subtle and sensitive realism by 14 year old Q'Orianka Kilcher. While there's definitely passion between Pocahontas and Smith, there's no physical display of it. Possibly due to Kilcher's age and/or a refusal by Malick to do anything ordinary.
Another theme here is...just who are the savages? One of the English spends time with the "naturals" as the English call them and begins to question the "superiority" of his culture. And there are times when the English are shown in a very unfavorable light, including tirades with spittle dripping off their chins while degrading the "savages." The contrast of cultures is a main theme in the movie.
Colin Farrell and Christian Bale both portray good, decent men and if Cinderella Man is any indication, that may be the box office kiss of death. I think mood and expectation are critical to watching this movie. If your mood is wrong are you're expecting something else (typical hollywood), you might be disappointed. But if you're ok with a slower pace, subtle and sensitive characters and the most realism this side of a PBS documentary; you might have a very good time.
Not your typical hollywood movie. More of an art film or a documentary told from the perspective of different characters. The opening scenes were so full of realism, I was almost afraid for any dialogue to start...that would spoil the feeling. But surprise, the dialogue didn't spoil the realism. Maybe no surprise to those familiar with Malick's work.
This movie will get two responses...those bored to death by the slow pace, little dialogue and little typical movie "action" and those who will love the artistry and loving care given to the characters, the environment and the particular time in history.
This is Pocahontas' story, though it began as John Smith's story. It's Pocahontas who remains the central character throughout. Played with a subtle and sensitive realism by 14 year old Q'Orianka Kilcher. While there's definitely passion between Pocahontas and Smith, there's no physical display of it. Possibly due to Kilcher's age and/or a refusal by Malick to do anything ordinary.
Another theme here is...just who are the savages? One of the English spends time with the "naturals" as the English call them and begins to question the "superiority" of his culture. And there are times when the English are shown in a very unfavorable light, including tirades with spittle dripping off their chins while degrading the "savages." The contrast of cultures is a main theme in the movie.
Colin Farrell and Christian Bale both portray good, decent men and if Cinderella Man is any indication, that may be the box office kiss of death. I think mood and expectation are critical to watching this movie. If your mood is wrong are you're expecting something else (typical hollywood), you might be disappointed. But if you're ok with a slower pace, subtle and sensitive characters and the most realism this side of a PBS documentary; you might have a very good time.
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My name is Maximus Decimus Meridius, commander of the Armies of the North, General of the Felix Legions, loyal servant to the true emperor, Marcus Aurelius. Father to a murdered son, husband to a murdered wife. And I will have my vengeance, in this life or the next.
My name is Maximus Decimus Meridius, commander of the Armies of the North, General of the Felix Legions, loyal servant to the true emperor, Marcus Aurelius. Father to a murdered son, husband to a murdered wife. And I will have my vengeance, in this life or the next.