| Overall Grade: |
A |
|
| Story: |
B+ |
|
|
| Acting: |
A |
|
|
| Direction: |
A- |
|
|
| Visuals: |
B+ |
|
|
Think about why Natalie Portman wanted to do this
by KenJ (movies profile)
Jun 18, 2008
6
of
7 people found this review helpful
First, go to see this just to see Natalie Portman's great performance. She deserves an Oscar for this, probably only Supporting, but she plays two parts.
But then you need to think why she picks this movie. I'm sure it is partly to work with the director, but there is a political statement this movie makes that is at least as relevant to today as it is to the period at the time. Torture by Inquisitors to get the truth about those who are trying to subvert an entity that is overly zealous and very corrupt with motives that may have more to do with money and power? The French secularists a little arrogantly perhaps) attempting to save the Spanish from religious tyrants in the name of liberty and equality only to have the British (not Americans this time) push them out and, perhaps unwittingly, restore the religious tyrants. And then there is the artist who sees it all and chooses not to push too hard ( and ironically loses his hearing)so he can continue to paint. I may be stretching somewhat but, really there is a reason Natalie did V is for Vendetta and this one.
Visually this film is great. Costuming, and make-up (especially for Natalie) is great. Plenty of scenes with Goya's works. You may want to stay for all of the credits at the end if you want to see his art.
I honestly feel this should be up for Best Picture; it is that good. I really do not see where these critics get their money for writing such ridiculous opinions. |
My Public Profile 
