Review of Demolition (2016) by K Nife C — 05 May 2016

You might have heard some negative reviews saying that this is cliché, predictable, etc. Screw that, this is an obvious deconstructionist film that is all the better for its excellent cast. I was expecting to not like this film very much because of the trailer.

True, much of it is given away, but the trailer doesn't really do the emotional impact of this film justice. This film is a deconstruction of American masculinity. Gyllenhaal is, of course, our primary protagonist and represents the traditional Amero-man for the past 60 years.

Judah Lewis represents the modern form of masculinity in its plethora of manifestations. He has a very quick arc, but his character does suggest something very progressive in the past two decades of gender studies and masculinity.

Watts' character is a mess and does a constant balancing act with the various problem scenarios, serving as a lynch-pin to the neuroses of the male characters. Gyllenhaal's deceased wife is merely the catalyst for questioning one's role in everyone else's existence, as opposed to what you would expect (the impetus for catharsis).

About the only unacceptable cliché you will find is the extensive usage of classic rock in the soundtrack, especially songs that don't have much to do with what is going on in the film. If you can get over that, you might feel enriched by this film.

If you aren't into that, then go watch another comic book movie.