Movie Review:
What can I say about this movie. Blood, guts, brutal, beautiful, surreal, but most of all just plain weird. This is not really a movie... it is a TRIP through bone-crunching slow-paced action and beautiful almost still shots, mixed with intentional painstaking nothingness. If you are someone who cannot sit still, this is not a movie for you. It doesn't know if it wants to be an art piece or a documentary, an action movie or silent picture... of course that could have been the desired effect, but that doesn't make it any easier to swallow.
I knew nothing about the film except that Mads Mikkelsen (Casino Royale and King Arthur) was in it. So not knowing what to expect of it was probably a small blessing. During an excruciatingly long boat scene, I knew where the movie was headed and what the end result of the story would be, but by that time I had no idea how exactly we were going to get there. I just knew the remaining journey would be... odd, and in that respect it didn't disappoint. With a title like "Valhalla Rising" and a picture of a shirtless, tattooed Mads on the cover, I couldn't resist, but I can't recommend it, even though there are some brilliant shots, gritty action bits, and strikingly beautiful landscapes.
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8 comments:
I enjoyed this movie, if only in a more intellectual way. Yes, the end result was expected, but I think the way it progressed to the end, was magnificent. I was expecting something more action-oriented from the previews, but a nice surprise was better. Very well filmed. Won't ever make a huge following, but definitely on my 'Liked Very Much' list.
An interesting review. Despite not recommending seeing it, you piqued my curiosity enough to want to see it. Even if only to compare or differentiate our mutual tastes in Cinema. Plus I really like Viking Stories, Lore and Mythology.
Ralphd00d:
An interesting note: when I said "but I can't recommend it"... what I originally wrote was... "but I wouldn't watch it again." The reason I mention this is because I actually didn't not like this film, but I can't say I liked it as a complete piece. There were parts of the movie that were brilliantly shot and the film itself appealed to me on a certain level. It kept me riveted, but not in a good way.
KW:
Now I'm curious to know what you think about it, if/when you watch it.
Wow... I guess I do need to wear those stupid glasses.
"Vanilla Rising"
T1G:
OMG! Can't stop laughing!
Go to bed dude.
T1G's comment was charmingly hilarious! Reminded me of someone a few years ago relating how he had told his teenage son "about a movie called "Zoo" that was supposed to be action-packed..." His son then sighed and said, "Dad, it's called "300"..."
Big Sis:
Yeah, I remember you telling me about that.
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