Clay
Since Russell Crowe (Fishman) stars in this one, I went into it expecting the standard-fare blockbuster action epic. I was not disappointed, but I was not entirely displeased, either.The film is indeed an action-epic type film, replete with a cast of noble, idealistic characters. The basic plot of the film--as well as its development and resolution--are standard fare for the genre. We've got struggle, we've got violence, we've got the occasional death and a pervasive sense of heroism. If you've got an appetite for a film like Braveheart, Gladiator, et all..M&C will satisfy your hunger.
I thought that the filmwork and cinematography were fine examples of the genre. The film's strongest suit is, undeniably, the epic battle(s) that occur in the final scenes. The weakest aspects, IMHO, are the predictability and sentimentality of the narrative. Quite a bit of patriotism flying around toward the end that might turn a viewer's stomach.
Interestingly, the movie flirts with specific aspects of Moby Dick symbolism. Clearly, the pride and obsession of the ship's captain is a parallel to MD, but there seem to be more subtle 'references', such as the crew's attempt to kill a phantom bird, along with other moments of superstitious mysticism in the ship's crew.
Nitpickers: I assume that Russell Crowe has a magical violin, since you can see his hands come off of the instrument while his part of the music keeps playing.
I give it a 5/8 pieces...many of those slices were tasty enough to recommend it with the warning: "Standard Genre Representative, yet entertaining".
(Tara did not view this film)
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