Denzel makes another hit movie with 'The Book of Eli'
CH Gorog | Staff Writer
Issue date: 2/3/10 Section: Lifestyles
Christianity in movies is a divisive subject. Too little of it in a "spiritual" movie and the film feels empty; too much and it feels "preachy." Balancing story, substance and spirituality in a movie can be a challenge, but "The Book of Eli" pulls it off very well.
Directed by Albert and Allen Hughes, the movie follows Denzel Washington's character, Eli, (although whether or not this is his real name is left unknown) wandering through the post-apocalyptic west. Eli walks through the desert in order to find a place to keep safe the last known Bible on the face of the earth. Unfortunately, bandits and murdering thieves are a constant threat to both the book and Eli's well-being. Carnegie, played by Gary Oldman, is the leader of a small town, and is on a quest to find the Bible. Carnegie's stepdaughter, Solara (Mila Kunis), becomes fascinated by Eli and begs him to take her with him on his journey. Tensions arise and before long, Carnegie and his crew of marauders begin their hunt for Eli.
The criticism of this movie being too "faith-driven" is a criticism that falls flat on its face once the whole movie is understood. The plot is not about Christianity, but spirituality in the sense that one can live for something beyond oneself in order to benefit humanity.
Washington gives a compelling performance as Eli; the character is truly interesting and not emotionally blank. Oldman's performance is deliciously awesome and his presence in the film works best in moderation. Mila Kunis, who is best known for her role in "That 70's Show," gives a surprisingly great performance and provides the emotional anchor for the movie.
In terms of cinematography, the film works well. The action scenes are brutal, yet just as brilliantly filmed as the scenes of dialogue. While you may get the sense that this movie is more akin to "Mad Max" or "The Road," in truth, it's a wandering samurai story of a man on a journey. The movie is definitely worth the full price of admission.
Directed by Albert and Allen Hughes, the movie follows Denzel Washington's character, Eli, (although whether or not this is his real name is left unknown) wandering through the post-apocalyptic west. Eli walks through the desert in order to find a place to keep safe the last known Bible on the face of the earth. Unfortunately, bandits and murdering thieves are a constant threat to both the book and Eli's well-being. Carnegie, played by Gary Oldman, is the leader of a small town, and is on a quest to find the Bible. Carnegie's stepdaughter, Solara (Mila Kunis), becomes fascinated by Eli and begs him to take her with him on his journey. Tensions arise and before long, Carnegie and his crew of marauders begin their hunt for Eli.
The criticism of this movie being too "faith-driven" is a criticism that falls flat on its face once the whole movie is understood. The plot is not about Christianity, but spirituality in the sense that one can live for something beyond oneself in order to benefit humanity.
Washington gives a compelling performance as Eli; the character is truly interesting and not emotionally blank. Oldman's performance is deliciously awesome and his presence in the film works best in moderation. Mila Kunis, who is best known for her role in "That 70's Show," gives a surprisingly great performance and provides the emotional anchor for the movie.
In terms of cinematography, the film works well. The action scenes are brutal, yet just as brilliantly filmed as the scenes of dialogue. While you may get the sense that this movie is more akin to "Mad Max" or "The Road," in truth, it's a wandering samurai story of a man on a journey. The movie is definitely worth the full price of admission.
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