Denzel Washington plays a wandering character called Eli in a post-nuclear holocaust world that’s as bleak Death Valley in the summer. The survivors in this ruined land are mostly thuggish killers. But when they try to mess with Eli, they’re surprised that this old guy is very deadly. Gary Oldman plays a maniacal warlord of a crumbling town which he rules with the aid of a band of motorcycle psychopaths and a group of gun-wielding toughs. Oldman and Denzel butt heads several times in this rambling movie. There’s plenty of violence, but the central plot device is more inspirational than realistic. Wait for the rental. GRADE: B-
I bet this was less depressing than THE SEAGULL, which I saw last night. And I know it was better acted.
THE BOOK OF ELI is set in the same grim future as THE ROAD, Patti. There are no happy endings in that world. They should dispense Zoloft to the audiences of THE SEAGULL.
I don’t like post-apocalyptic books and films. They never satisfy. I liked A BOY AND HIS DOG until the ending, but at least I knew it was coming, having read the story it’s based on. From ON THE BEACH to this one, they all are a waste of money, talent and time in my gentle opinion.
I suspect that Gary Oldman gives his usual restrained performance.
I can think of two exceptions to your opinion, Rick. HIERO’S JOURNEY by Sterling Lanier and A CANTICLE FOR LIEBOWITZ by Walter M. Miller.
Gary Oldman shows as much restaint in his roles as Nicolas Cage does in his, Bill.
Scenery is meant to be chewed–it’s delicious!
I read A CANTICLE FOR LIEBOWITZ in high school. It was boring.
Denzel and Gary Oldman are a study in contrasts in THE BOOK OF ELI, Drongo. Denzel plays his role in a very understated way. Oldman is over-the-top in every scene he’s in.
A CANTICLE FOR LIEBOWITZ is a subtle critique of society and religion, Rick. HEIRO’S JOURNEY is good, old-fashioned adventure. If I can find an extra copy, I’ll send it to you.
A movie I will have to see. Sounds terrific.
THE BOOK OF ELI is bleak, David. But Denzel delivers his usual fine performance.