Writers: Danny Boyle/Simon Beaufoy
Year of Release: 2010
To be totally honest, I'm just glad the flick wasn't named after it's source material ('Between a Rock and a Hard Place'). Little films like this with minimal characters and settings always do tend to astound me if they are successfully pulled off, and in this case - it is. However the film didn't necessarily astound me, so I s'pose that's an overstatement. As entertaining, inspirational and (occasionally) existential as the film is, there wasn't a whole lot that struck me as profound, or new. Danny Boyle's creative flourishes have lost their flare somewhat, and now strike me now as quirks more than anything else, they frequently left a stale aftertaste. To the films credit though, I honestly can't think of a single moment where I found myself bored, it is supremely entertaining, and Franco's performance was very exceptional (although I think I preferred him in Howl this year), if there is any highlight to this film, it is most definitely him. The now infamous arm cutting scene is most grueling, and a brilliant showcase of some of the hat tricks that the sound design dudes have up their sleeves (or y'know... in their hats... whatever). I think what dragged the film down most (at least for me), was it's lack of ability to really hit me on a gut level, there were no emotional highs or lows, and whatever was present was glossed over with effects and Boyle's aforementioned 'quirks'. While I did feel quite happy for the poor sod once he found his helicopter, I wasn't exactly biting my tongue in anticipation. Which brings me to another unfortunate point - It is doubtful that anyone who goes into the theater is unaware that Rolston comes out at the end a limb short (I almost wish the pun were intended). Which isn't to the film's detriment at all, however it does take away from the viewing experience, and if you honestly didn't have a clue - well then good on you. However I think Danny Boyle was aware of this, which may be the result of the film's watch-ability. Either way, the film on the whole was quite enjoyable, and I would definitely recommend it. Although I'd have to disagree with any comments asserting 'film of the year'.
Overall rating: 7.9
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