Review of Leaving Las Vegas (1995) by Brandon S — 24 Dec 2011
Both Nicholas Cage and Elisabeth Shue give stunning performances in this film. Cage is flawless in his rendition of a man living on the edge, consuming what seems to be nothing but alcohol. Shue is convincing as the "prostitute with a heart of gold".
This film is essentially one of tragedy, the journey of Cage's character Ben is one of the things the film wants to show. A constant flow of alcohol engulfs Ben as his primary aim is to "drink himself to death" and the alcohol itself becomes a symbol of the self-destructive path he has taken.
The growing relationship between Ben and Sera (Shue) is portrayed well and takes into account the different lives of these two people, who are united through a sincere love that emerges as the film progresses.
The focus of the relationship is an important part of the film, however I would have personally wanted to find out a bit more about Cage's character and his story. The cinematography is at times very powerful and the musical score is a worthy accompaniment to the story and setting of the film.
This review of Leaving Las Vegas (1995) was written by Brandon S on 24 Dec 2011.
Leaving Las Vegas has generally received very positive reviews.
Was this review helpful?
