FILM: Road To Perdition

[#SnowyVernalSpringsEternal 12,386]

A mob film, but one with a twist. Ever since the Godfather mob pics have focused on providing a gritty violence.

This film, while maintaining a sense realism, adopts a more distant, philosophical tone.

Often during scenes of violence the camera pulls away, rather then closer. So when we are shown some actual graphic violence, the effect is stronger.

Also this film is not about the victims, it's about those who commit the crime. The innocent are largely in the background.

Tom Hanks seems like an unlikely choice for a professional killer. Yet it makes sense. As an actor, he exudes a warmth and even while playing an emotionally withdrawn killer, there is still some humanity there. A colder actor would have made the character too distant.

Paul Newman has only a few scenes, but dominates them. He seems to do so little, yet what he does works. Daniel Craig is repulsive as his son. Jude Law as a contract killer is even more scary. A brief conversation between him and Hanks in a dinner is very well done.

This is on the surface a cold film, with motivation and emotions expressed only briefly and reluctantly. Considering most of the characters are lifelong killers, it makes sense to draw them this cautious.

The last film shot by Conrad Hall. It looks gorgeous. From sumptuous night shots in pouring rain to a beautiful white beach. Visual poetry.

The score by Thomas Coolman impresses by not following the clichés of the gangster score. Though there are some Irish influences in the score, Coolman mainly relies on piano, strings and an assortment of synthetic styling to set the mood. His main theme is one of family rather then murder.

Sam Mendes' second film, but directed with a quiet confidence and sense of purpose. It's a very sparse, economical film. He doesn't make a Godfather or Scorsese style gangster film. He had something different in mind and pulled it of.

***1/2 out of ****

[Red 75]

I love this film and Newton's score.

[Incanus 5,890]

I love this film and Newton's score.

You mean Newman's score?

And yes this is a great film and the score fits it like a glove. One of Newman's strongest efforts.

[#SnowyVernalSpringsEternal 12,386]

Ive been having the End theme running through my head all morning