"Apocalypto" should have been more controversial than Mel Gibson's other traditionalist classic "Passion of the Christ". That it was not is a clue as to who holds real political sway in our culture. In any event, this movie is fine addition to Gibson's string of writer/directorial classics, making Gibson the top writer/director of our age.
Although violent and not very complex in plot, "Apocalyto" stands as a monument of originality in the wasteland of modern American cinema. To make a hero out of a small jungle tribe tyranized by the Maya was truly a unique stroke that stands apart in the entire Hollywood oeurve. To portray these people as they really were, that they had their own very dark side, was a startling act of bravery in our postmodern culture, which seldom portrays any but white Europeans, usually males, as villains and oppressors. The great civilizations of pre-Columbian Mexico and Central America had vices so horrific that history should regard the Conquistadores as liberators rather than the gold-crazed pillagers that have become paradigmatic in our youths' history texts. Sure, they had cultural achievements to compare with those of the Egyptians, but the "Egyptians never practised human sacrifice", according to Herodotus.
Secondly, an impressive amount of cinematic talent was necessary to mold a riveting adventure out of an alien culture, using strictly unknown foreign actors. Many a fine premise has been ruined by poor execution, but not so "Apocalypto". There is vivid character development despite the limitations imposed by subtitles. The visuals are a stunning recreation of how the Mayan civilizations probably appeared. The entertaining series of deus ex machinas that save the hero, Jaguar Paw, as he is pursued by blood thirsty Mayans, culminating with the masterful suprise ending, driving home the message of the film, were inspired.
All in all, "Apocalypto" is an original, well executed movie, somewhat limited by its subject matter and excessive gore, which serve the purpose of the film, but don't watch it over dinner!
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More Detail For Apocalypto Blu ray
- ISBN13: 0786936726145
- Condition: NEW
- Notes: Brand New from Publisher. No Remainder Mark.
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