Rating of
2.5/4
2.5 stars for the movie, 4 stars acting job
BryanFury - wrote on 11/12/07
This movie really blew it out of the box, acting wise. You can never go wrong having Joaquin Phoenix as lead actor in this dark tale of Guns, Goons and Gold. Step inside the mind of director James Gray into his underworld of cops and gangsters. The movie started out slow, I mean really slow and if you’re not enthusiastic enough you could fall asleep right about the opening credits. It definitely sets you in the mood upon hearing its mellow dramatic theme, reminiscent of the all time classics like Scarface and The Untouchables. I’m not saying it’s as good as them, but it just reminded me of those movies upon hearing the opening music. Like I said it was a really slow pace from the beginning of the movie to the climax. And you also need to listen carefully in the dialogue because some lines are delivered like they’re eating the words, or maybe it was just me having a hard time hearing them. Anyway all kidding aside this movie has three maybe four different languages spoken, and if you’re not listening for even just one second you could be lost in translation. On a different note as I’ve said very powerful performances from its actors, especially from the lead character Bobby Green. What more could you ask from a cast of the likes of Robert Duvall and Mark Wahlberg plus that sexy thing Eva Mendes. Story wise, it was kind of a bust for me. I’m not really into cop dramas, definitely not my cup of tea. Cinematography for me was mediocre, but frames were nicely shot. Director James Gray overall did a good job. For me Phoenix acting prowess in this film is certainly Oscar worthy. Patience is a must have factor when watching these type of films. Two and half stars for the movie, four stars for the acting.
