His killing ways . .

Rating: 9/10 (18 February 2008)

I once heard Alain Delon give a definition of the difference between "un comedien" and "un acteur". The former, he said, interprets a character, whereas the latter becomes the character. By this definition, Javier Bardem is a great actor. Others who spring to mind are Daniel Day Lewis and Gary Oldman. This is rarefied company indeed, but yes, Bardem belongs here, as anyone who sees his performance in this film as Anton, the cold-blooded automaton of a killer, who dispenses death indiscriminately and without feeling, can testify.
Bardem turns in a towering, unforgettable performance which will probably win the Oscar in 2008 for best supporting actor. His impact is immediate, and he completely overshadows the rest of the cast. Tommy Lee Jones (Ed Tom Bell) is himself, as he always is, and Josh Brolin (Llewellyn Moss), turns in a professional, but unremarkable performance in the lead role. I liked him better as Detective Trupo in American Gangster.
This is a violent film; chock full of indiscriminate, mindless killings. In Anton's world, human life has no value, to live or die is a random game of chance, decided upon a whim, a chance remark, the flip of a coin. He strides through this world with impunity, invincibility, devoid of the slightest hint of conscience or responsibility for his actions. He really doesn't give a damn, and yet he has his own, personal code of honour. He does take pride in his work, and always gets his man.
But beware, once you have allowed the images of Anton to imprint themselves on the back of your retina, they will be indelible. You will never forget him. The character he creates is that powerful. The haircut, the clothes, the walk, the mannerisms, the voice, and his manner of killing, all combine to create a chilling, soulless, remorseless individual, devoid of saving graces.
True to expectations, with their pedigree, the Cohen brothers have produced a sharp, atmospheric, potent and original film, and there are many surprises in store in this three-way "catch me if you can" chase across the USA and Mexico. There is almost no music, but I am sure that hardly anyone will notice, such is the strength and quality of the script, the direction and the sheer momentum of events.