Review of Only God Forgives (2013) by Jose R — 22 Aug 2014

Remember, Only God Forgives. I remember seeing a poster for the film with Gosling bloodied and bruised to a really suggestive title. Written and directed by Nicolas Refn who worked with Gosling in the astounding Drive, composes some of the same styles he used in the film like facial expressions, long shot, color, lighting, and what not.

Yet, Refn and Gosling leave out romance chemistry Drive had, for a colder and spiritless vibe in the corrupted streets of Bangkok. Gosling who plays Julian is a darker and soulless character living in an inferno set.

This is where lighting, color, and picture come to effect creating a surreal, atmospheric view that is beautiful and nauseating. After Julian's brother Billy is killed, his mother arrives in Bangkok to settle the score not putting Julian in a very complicated stand.

Like the film Drive, Refn is locked into the character's psyche influenced by the situation and surroundings. Unlike the Driver who can be loved, I have to say Julian is almost the exact opposite of the character we fell in love in Drive with only characteristics bot characters shared.

The film's violence is strong and grisly with enough grisly scenes to get you dizzy. It may be to much to handle for some and also unbearable is the film's pacing. Comments and criticism is the film's pace which I did not mind.

You will either get bored or will be enthralled especially the tension that builds around it and not to mention the film's soundtrack. Do not go see this film thinking you will have another film like Drive.

There is so much to say, but too little write about. Remember, Only God Forgives!