Review of Apocalypto (2006) by David P — 13 Jul 2011

Good bloody entertainment - that's really all this film is. There's really no emotional connection and the characters are forgettable. But 'Apocalypto' is masterfully and skilfully shot and there isn't a single boring moment during the films 2 hour and 18 minute run.

Set in Mexico during the declining period of the Mayan civilization; 'Apocalypto' is about a tribe's man named Jaguar Paw who must escape human sacrifice and rescue his pregnant wife and son. The first hour and a half is the tribe being captured and then taken to the temple of human sacrifice. After that is over, the rest of the film becomes a cat and mouse chase through the Mayan Jungle, as Jaguar Paw uses his instincts to survive against his captors (because he killed the leader's son and he wants to "peal of his skin and make him, watch him wear it"). It's not a very original story and don't expect to care for the characters, but the film is really exciting and has many greatly executed action and chase scenes.

The film used no CGI, everything is practical. The scene in the city, with all those extras is genuine as is all those costumes. Artistic, is another word to greatly describe Apocalypto, as the cinematography, the editing and the use of slow motion demonstraights.

The film looks beautiful but, what director Mel Gibson has shown us as well, is how violent and brutal their culture was. This film is not for the faint of heart.

Overall; there isn't much else I can say. 'Apocalypto' is an exciting, beautiful and brutal movie; that's all it is. Don't expect any forms of character development and for you to care about their fate, but if you just want to switch-off and enjoy a well shot and entertaining movie then this movie is for you.

8.1/10.

BBFC rating: 18 - For strong bloody violence and gore.