Review of Bringing Out the Dead (1999) by David K — 27 Jul 2008
This surrealist piece from Martin Scorsese is among his best. This is easily one of his most underrated films. Collaborating again with Paul Schrader, (writer of "Taxi Driver," "Raging Bull," and "The Last Temptation of Christ") this film again tells the tale of a man losing his grip on reality by questioning the world around him while trying to do his job.
Through morose monologues, Frank Pierce (Nicolas Cage) explains that he became an EMT to save people. To make a difference. To become God. However, we are shown three days of Frank's life while he tries to accomplish all of these things.
His efforts prove futile and the journey this puts him on is absolutely surreal. Scorsese once again provides beautiful style to accompany the issues he presents. Frank, ultimately, is a lost soul striving for that meaning that he had when he first started his work.
He slowly realizes that he can't save everyone. He is not god. But he still can make a difference. "Saving someone" doesn't always mean saving their life. Sometimes, it means something deeper.
"Bringing Out the Dead" is about a powerless human being striving for some sort of power and meaning in his life. The film is very dark and very challenging to watch. But if you can just let go and experience what Scorsese presents, you won't be disappointed.
This review of Bringing Out the Dead (1999) was written by David K on 27 Jul 2008.
Bringing Out the Dead has generally received positive reviews.
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