A visual feast.... but so much more!

Rating: 7/10 (25 February 2013)

Life of Pi. Where to begin? Life of Pi is probably most known for it's stunning visual effects after picking up Best Visual Effects and Cinematography at the Oscars. So, that is a good place to start. The cgi is INCREDIBLE! The tiger looks unbelievably realistic and some of the landscapes are breath-taking. This visuals are commonly compared to Avatar. Life of Pi's are far supreme. The story is also brilliant yet simple; a boy and a tiger trapped on a boat. It does not hold up to the claim that it will 'make you believe in God' yet it is a heart-warming tale with a thought provoking final twist. The script does not stand out compared to the visuals but is witty and emotional and hooks the viewer. This is a Hollywood blockbuster yet mainly consists of an Indian cast that aren't very well known. I feel that this is a bonus because you do not see Pi as a Hollywood superstar but, instead, as an average boy. This doesn't mean, however, that Suraj Sharma (actor who plays Pi for the main section of the film) acted to the standard of a normal boy. The acting was very good (not award worthy) and was clever as Pi was mainly reacting to a CGI tiger. The music is also very good and fits with the cultural style of the different locations. However, I wouldn't say that it deserved the Oscar for it. This film is a visual feast to remember but is also a lot more - a story that will stay with the viewer long after the film and a script and acting that fits well. This is a real achievement for director, Ang Lee, and he truly deserved his Oscar. This film is a real gem and deserves more popularity than it has been given.