Having secured Golden Globes for Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor in a Drama, "The Revenant" has definitely made it on the map for the upcoming Academy Awards. Going into this film, I had little doubt that it would be a good movie. But was it possible that it had been overhyped? That's what I sought to find out.
"The Revenant" is directed by Alejandro Inarritu and follows an expedition of American hunters from the south during the 1800's as they navigate their way back to their post so that they can get paid for animal skins they've acquired. The expedition goes awry when the camp makes an unexpected encounter with a Native American tribe and when their guide Hugh Glass, played by Leonardo DiCaprio, becomes severely injured. Overall, the film has a simple premise. It's a survival story that showcases conflicts between man versus and man versus other men. It's brutal, no doubt, it's suspenseful but It's also pretty straightforward and a little formulaic in comparison to Inarritu's last film, "Birdman." However, it's the execution of the film that makes this film really special.
This is a beautifully envisioned movie. Every shot of this movie is gorgeous, showcasing some of the most incredible landscapes. There are also some shots that make your jaw drop and make you think, "How the hell did they film that?" (Specifically a scene that involves Leonardo DiCaprio interacting with a bear and another where he rides a horse.) The camera work and cinematography is impressive to say the least.
Let's talk about Leonardo DiCaprio. This guy deserves the praise he has earned for his performance in this film. He gives such a compelling performance. He doesn't even have much to say, but he expertly fulfills the physical demands of his role. You really have to respect his level of commitment. On another front, Tom Hardy gives an equally impressive performance as the film's antagonist. Every time he was on the screen, I couldn't help but loathe him. But the type of loathing where I understand where his character is coming from, but he is such a dirtbag. He could have been a stereotype of a bad guy but Hardy elevates this. And its awesome. The rivalry between Hardy and DiCaprio is so intense, it is kind of making me sweat as I type this.
Overall, I thought "The Revenant" was a really great movie. I don't know if I'd like to see again very soon though. The movie was relentless and grim -- I think my nerves need a break. Survival stories aren't exactly my cup of tea and this film serves as a great reminder of why I quit Boy Scouts when I was so young.
