Fury Road

Rating: 4/10 (20 May 2015)

It is, as if, George Miller really wanted to prove, that he can still produce the best vehicle chase scenes in a movie. The film moves along, for the most part, at break neck speed, leaving little time for a breather. For those who aren't familiar with the original trilogy, a brief explanation from Max, about himself, starts the film. For any fan of the originals, the way it was executed will of been a disappointment.
Max feels less important in this film. His character is not the centre of the story, but more a part of it. Perhaps this is a good thing however. Tom Hardy's version of Max Rockatansky feels more trying. Mel Gibson made that character his own. It was pulled off naturally, without any need to be macho or overtly crazy. Tom Hardy's portrayal looks and sounds more akin to some of his previous efforts, (see 'Bronson').
But that was always going to be the inevitable disappointment for fans of the originals, trying to enjoy a new Mad Max with a different actor filling in the shoes of such an iconic character.
The film as a whole, wears all the expected fabric of a post apoc' world, but only this time it is worn by a new breed. Theirs plenty to see in this revamped vision, for fans of the old films to enjoy. The insane characters and their surroundings wouldn't look out of place in Road Warrior or Beyond Thunderdome.
The pace of the film is very different, and for some part, feels too much, too rushed, like a sugar rush. This was however, Miller's intention. To make a film, that comes at you like a steam train on fire, driven by a load of lunatics.
If you treat the original trilogy like a family, then they would all be siblings, born of the same parents; Byron Kennedy (RIP) & George Miller. Fury Road then, feels more like a step brother. Related, but different from the rest.
For the younger generation, or just those that have never seen the other three, this new entry, will either introduce them to the original trilogy, or end up being just another action flick.
I personally will find it very hard not to stamp my biased opinion on this review, being that the first movie from (1979) is one of my all time favourites. I find Fury Road, without heart. And to me, that was always my connection with the central character 'Max'. Even when he is the burnt out shell of a man, in Road Warrior.
Mel Gibson just seemed to own that character. Every little nuance of expression, and he sells it so naturally. The chaotic pace of Fury Road, like a trailer to a modern video game, never gives Hardy the chance to really take over the role and do it justice. Instead we are mainly treated to grunts and scowls.
To me, the movie as a whole, is typical of what Hollywood are dishing out. It seems to cater for the below average attention span.
Its popcorn fodder, with plenty of crash, bang, wallops! But no substance, and hardly an excuse to even call this a 'Mad Max' movie. Instead, it should be re-named; 'Furiosa', the name of Charlize Theron's character.