Film Fetish: "Seraphim Falls"

Seraphim Falls (2006)
- directed by David Von Ancken


Nearing the close of the 1860's, years after the end of The Civil War, two veterans of the war, Carver (Liam Neeson) and Gideon (Pierce Brosnan), find themselves locked in a vicious game of Cat-and-Mouse set against the American Southwest. Enlisting the assistance of four bounty hunters, Carver is dead-set on wrangling in Gideon and delivering his own brand of justice. But Gideon is far more dangerous, cunning and resourceful than he appears and will not give up when it comes to ensuring his personal survival. What is it that ties these two men together? What has spawned this tale of revenge? The answer is Seraphim Falls.

First off, I gotta say that the Revenge film is my favorite genre of film... hands down. And Seraphim Falls is a definite balls-to-the-wall revenge film. I loooved this movie! Neeson and Brosnan are two of my favorite actors and they certainly don't disappoint here. Aesthetically, this film is perfect. The way they're able to capture the ferocity, grandeur and beauty of the American Southwest is nothing short of masterful. The only down-side of the film lies in the mystery of Seraphim Falls, in this respect, you're left in the dark for much of the film. The audience is left wondering what possible sequence of events could fuel this fierce vendetta. Though, if you're a fan of the revenge film you only need identify with the character archetypes to keep yourself glued to the story.

8/10 As far revenge films go, this is one of the very best. It's a perfect meditation on vengeance, temptation and forgiveness. It's all tied together beautifully with great directing, cinematography, acting and some of the most memorable action sequences you'll ever see.



* Spoilers *

If there's any reason to see this film, it has to be for the film's climax. In it, the two men find themselves broken and weak facing certain death as they carry on their pursuit/escape on a vast, scorching desert playa. Enter Anjelica Huston in an amazing role as The Devil... 'nough said. ;)

DS333, overjoyed. :D