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| Reviewed by: Chris Burton 20 Oct 2008 Eastern Promises
| |  David Croenberg’s follow-up to A History of Violence is an unflinching and brutal crime drama sure to be remembered for years to come. Viggo Mortnesen’s performance as the ruthless Nikolai in a world of brutal Russian gangsters is astounding. That performance, along with the excellent work of the supporting cast, the excellent script, and beautiful directing, are what drives this unrelenting and uncompromising film.
Anna (Naomi Watts) is a British midwife who comes across the diary of an alleged prostitute employed by the Russian mafia. She comes to the attention of the powerful local family headed by Semyon (Armin Mueller-Stahl). Semyon’s son is Krill (Vincent Cassell), a vile and rash young man with a loyal driver named Nicolai.
The film opens with a particularly brutal execution in a barber shop. Croenberg knows how to film these scenes. No glamorization or sentimentality to be found anywhere in this film, especially among the numerous murders. Mortensen’s Nicolai is absolutely convincing in every facet of the performance. He’s not Russian, but you’d never know it the way he acts in this picture.
Watts is also excellent as the confused civilian caught up in a gang war. This is not a typical crime film, so don’t expect typical resolutions for any characters in this film. As Nicolai heads further and further into the inner circle of the family, we learn more about him and them. He eventually is heading straight for Naomi Watts.
My hope is that as the years pass, this film will be recognized and remembered as surely one of the best crime films in a long time. One can’t wait for Croenberg’s next effort, because whatever it is its certain to be memorable.
Eastern Promises comes to Blu-ray in a breathtakingly perfect presentation. It is 2.35:1 widescreen and encoded at 1080p. This is a very grave and drab film, it must be for its mood. The color palette on this disc is very strong, but never intrusive. Blacks are insanely detailed, and overall detail is excellent. There are no issues with grain, noise, or blemishes.
Audio is Dolby TrueHD 5.1 surround, and very impressive, though not on par with a gigantic action film. But it is on par for the kind of film it is and what its trying to relay. Bass is very heavy, and surround active. Dialogue, as well, is crisp and clear. |
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Copyright (c) 2007 Rock Star Media Works, Inc. All rights reserved.
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