Review of Eastern Promises (2007) by Trystan C — 23 Jul 2012

Not to be a critic that thinks he knows everything, but I have to say that David Cronenberg's films are the most honest ones I go and see. While Bruce Willis is jumping out of cars and shooting people through himself, Viggo Mortensen is writhing in pain, naked on a sauna floor, barely defeating his would-be killers.

This could be why his movies always feel as though they're lacking something. They aren't done up with the sort of Hollywood Glamo-Pretense (Yes, I realize I just made up "Glamo-Pretense.") that viewers have come to expect from their movie going experience.

I think this prevents Cronenberg's films from ever becoming popular with the mainstream. It may even continue to shaft him Oscars. (See: History of Violence.) But it makes his films some of the most refreshing and original ones out there.