Flight, directed by the always-brilliant Robert Zemeckis, is not one of them, though many theatre-goers will sit down in a movie theatre expecting it to be.
Instead, it is a gripping story of sin, betrayal, redemption. Put in the hands of the ever-skillful acting of Mr. Denzel Washington, we watch a man who is inadequately attempting his own metaphorical flight from what he is. I will not elaborate here; you just simply should see it.
The story line is complex and intelligent, with a few surprises along with way. The primary characters are multi-layered. And I came as close to experiencing an actual plane crash as I ever care to.
The supporting cast will most likely earn Oscar nods (Kelley Reilly), for they truly SUPPORT in exemplary style, including, again, a scene-stealing John Goodman.
I really, really liked this film. Mr. Washington, you should receive an Oscar nomination for your portrayal here, but don't make a place on your mantle just yet; I'm afraid there's an actor named Daniel Day-Lewis who will probably snatch hopes from you just because he chose this year to play President Abraham Lincoln.
Right on, film blog partner! I agree completely. Loved this comment you made: we watch a man who is inadequately attempting his own metaphorical flight from what he is. How very true. Denzel will no doubt be nominated for Best Actor, and I too fear Daniel D-D will be better. Have not seen the new Lincoln, but the role is always perfect for dramatic tension. Back to Flight: What a searing look at substance abuse! I'd go back to Days of Wine and Roses for a comparison...or maybe The Man with the Golden Arm. I won't give away the ending, but I would ask readers to weigh in on it.
ReplyDeleteFirst, upon a re-read, I quickly corrected my careless "...a actor." Horrors!
ReplyDeleteSecond, one of my take-aways from this film is the complexity of being "under the influence." The mysterious reality of alcohol or drugs is that, remarkably, one CAN operate with ability even with a high blood count. The brain can be amazing in its levels of skill when needed. HOWEVER, this film makes us confront modern society's construct that it does not matter! YOU WILL BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE. Period. It is a sober (-pun-) reminder that we had better take heed of this fact.