Sizzles with Achievement.

Rating: 9/10 (8 July 2008)

'Black Snake Moan' may very well be one of the most bizarre films I have ever seen, and surely last year's most uniquely remarkable achievements. But do these oddities define Craig Brewer's follow-up to 'Hustle and Flow'? I'm extremely excited to say that no, no it doesn't. 'Black Snake Moan' breathes of life, boasts startlingly powerful performances, and soulful blues to get your foot tapping.
I feel warranted to say that the story itself that is told here on-screen - about a Southern man who, after his wife left him for another man, chains up a bruised and beaten promiscuous young lady he finds on the site of a street in hopes of curing her of her 'disease' - is not to be taken completely literal. It is more or less a metaphor, but as the viewer we have the fortune of seeing such a memorable and textured story unfold before our eyes in innovated fashion. It immerses us with the rich culture of the deep south, giving the picture a thick atmosphere we can sink our teeth into. It's sultry and sexy, a fitting tune for a homage to the Blues.
If cinema's ultimate goal is allowing audiences the opportunity to escape to a new world and leave this one behind, 'Black Snake Moan' achieves like few others. Samuel L. Jackson delivers a harrowing and tormented performance that may be right up his alley, but something only he could pull off. Christina Ricci, likewise, pulls off what may very well be her best performance to date. It's a challenging role, but Ricci's dedication is disturbingly evident and becomes a very memorable experience to watch. Combine these two excellent stars with a killer soundtrack and you have a transfixing story that captures the heart and soul of Blues while telling a poignant tale of redemption.
'Black Snake Moan' is like none other, a unique brand of film held completely intact by writer and director Craig Brewer. It may sound outlandish, and it is. But this beautiful American portrait transports us to an entirely new world that entertains and uplifts at the same time. One of 2007's overlooked gems, 'Black Snake Moan' is toe-tapping brilliance that deserves to be seen. See it for the insanity. See it for the music. But perhaps most of all, see it for Christina Ricci's mesmerizing and sexy performance.
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