Review of Life of Pi (2012) by Shane M — 30 Dec 2013

A very interesting and incredible visual masterpiece. This film, based on the novel of the same name that was claimed "unfilmable" is brought to life through a consistent narrative, and Ang Lee's stellar direction that shouldn't have won an Oscar though (Ben Affleck was cheated).

The film follows the life of protagonist Pi, starting with his childhood to the struggle for survival that changed his life forever. While moving to Canada with his family and their animals, the cargo ship they're on is caught in a viscous storm and Pi escapes on a lifeboat with other animals being transported to Canada, including a Bengal tiger named Richard Parker.

The film may have a lower budget than other films with stellar visuals, however, the Oscar-winning visuals are incredible, create a sense of beauty and realism, with many tense moments for good measure, and have a convincing look and feel to them.

The film also has elements of a fight to survive, including the rationing of supplies, the way to adjust to surroundings, and the assembly of shelter and storage of supplies. Pi also has to survive alongside the Bengal tiger named Richard Parker on board with him by earning his trust.

The film has other beneficial qualities, such as Suraj Sharma's incredible portrayal as the 16-year-old Pi fighting for his life out at sea, as well as other great performances from the cast, and David Magee's smartly-written script.

The film also has incredible dramatic depth thanks to the effective connection between Pi and Richard Parker. This film is one of the best films of 2012, a film worth seeing, and another great book to film adaptation.