Review of Besieged (1998) by Emil K — 20 Apr 2009
Who would have guessed that the best film from the Italian master Bernardo Bertolucci is also actually one of his least known. From the day I saw Il Conformista, I just knew Bertolucci is one of the greatest, and when I saw Last Tango in Paris I was just blown away.
That film had huge influence on me back in those years. Nothing still quite preapared me for this film. I knew that besieged was film I needed to see in bertolucci's filmography, but I just could not know that it would be one of the greatest cinematical experiences i've had in my whole life.
Bertolucci has alway knew how to use camera, colours and music, and all those elements are in such wonderful balance here. Besieged is one of those rare films that just keeps you guessing where it will take you next.
Actions of the characters cannot just be predicted. At the first sight this film may seem like romantic drama, but there are truly big issues beneath the surface. Bertolucci even teases us with moments of building tension, brilliantly shot while piano performance and uncertain mood of dread and eerie use of elevator shaft.
The whole film feels that it takes place in a hallucinatory dream. You simply cannot trust your eyes. I also need to mention one thing about the performances of Thandie newton and David Thewlis, they are simply outstanding.
If you wanna see true artist at the peak of his career look no further. Besieged is one of the greatest films ever to be made. A True masterpiece.
This review of Besieged (1998) was written by Emil K on 20 Apr 2009.
Besieged has generally received positive reviews.
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