Underrated IMO...

Rating: 8/10 (29 September 2012)

Beautifully shot with some stunning images. I wasn't sure about the muted tones used at first but as the film went on it grew on me. The musical score by Clint Mansell was both beautiful and inspired; I will be tracking it down. The performances of the two central characters; Hugh Jackman as Tomas / Tommy / Tom Creo and Rachel Weisz as Isabel / Izzi Creo were stunning; Aronofsky certainly knows how to get a performance and they didn't let him down. I also have to give honourable mentions to; Ellen Burstyn as Dr. Lillian Guzetti, Mark Margolis as Father Avila, Stephen McHattie as Grand Inquisitor Silecio and Fernando Hernandez as Lord of Xibalba.
I have to admit this is the second time I've seen this one and it's one of those that gets better each time you see it. There are so many nuances and plot devices that it can be quite a hard one to get a handle on first time around. That's probably one of the reasons it has divided opinion so much. The three threads of the story seem so remote at first but as you watch it all gradually pulls together. For me it is just the right length, any longer and it might have become a little tedious. I know there are many out there that didn't like if first time around; to you I say; give it another chance try to watch it with an open mind. It is slow-paced deliberately to allow the audience time to assimilate the story. If you're watching it for the first time on my recommendation, then be prepared to give it a second viewing; you may not get it all first time around.
SteelMonster's verdict: HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
My score: 8.1/10
You can find an expanded version of this review on my blog: Thoughts of a SteelMonster.