Review of Eastern Promises (2007) by Juan C — 04 Apr 2010

Eastern Promises features a great cast, mixed in several interlinking plot threads. There is a realistic feeling to this, which becomes quite unsettling as a normal family is dragged ever so slowly into the underworld. I loved the way in which the Naomi Watts character was set up with the longing for a child. It could have easily felt heavy handed if handled slightly differently. The same goes for the girls diary read throughout the film.

I loved the way Crononberg handled his fight scenes in this film. There is so little glamour and they are a highlight of the film. As is the realisation of why Viggo's partner in crime was so willing to see him partake in carnal pleasures.

I enjoyed the way the plot progressed throughout the film. However some unneeded plot twists do occur and they are a little weak and unbelivable. Though an action packed finale is thankfully sidestepped, it still seems to take away from an otherwise engrossing film. The uncle returns at a snap, the baby is not killed, and the informant is King. It just doesn't jive with what seemed possible at an earlier stage.