The Revenant movie review

Rating: 10/10 (9 January 2016)

OK, so first of all, I have way too much to say about this movie. It's intense as all get out. Visually striking, the camera work was great. As Leo took a slice to the cheek from fellow cast mate Tom Hardy, blood smeared the camera lens giving it authentic brutality for us as viewers. The sound was so crisp, my own ears were ringing after the arrows released from the bows of the Indians effortlessly whistled by and hit a nearby tree trunk 5 minutes before! This was truly a visual film for me. The color palette was so rich, I honestly can't remember the last time I saw a movie that was filled with such vibrancy! It's gross but I could literally smell the sweat coming from everyone in the theater because of the intensity this film brought. I could taste the dryness in my mouth after my heart sank several times during the emotional gut-wrenching heartbreaks. So, I think its safe to say, my 5 senses were definitely utilized to the fullest extent! Haha! But back to visuals, I loved how Alejandro González Iñárritu (Director of Revenant) created moments in the film to give the audience time to absorb all of the epic potency that were birthed in the scenes before. For example, a battle between former allies now turned foes comes to a close in a 30 second scene that focuses on the still waters of a ravine to reflect on what just happened and how the currents are always changing. Just like in life too. Or the loss of a loved one ending in a scene gliding through the dark skies with a faint glowing light breaking through the clouds to suggest that that loved one is now truly home safe and sound. But the dark skies don't make the pain any easier. The symbolism and metaphorical allusions had my heart and mind racing which made this film even more enjoyable. To top it all off, Ryuichi Nakamoto, responsible for composing the musical score was absolutely phenomenal. I'm a music guy so this was definitely the icing on the cake for me. All in all, fantastic movie. With intensity aside though, the film did offer some lighthearted moments as well to go along with the excellent structure that Iñárritu already had going for its mint condition exoskeleton of a movie! I don't usually do long, drawn-out movie reviews for just any movie but this one was worth it. Although, It's definitely not for the faint of heart as my cousin and I were outmatched in age by at least 20 or 30 years ha ha! I see this film winning many awards or at least being nominated for a some! Now........... for crying out loud, will someone please give Leo his Oscar already! Hahaha!