Review of Redbelt (2008) by Richard S — 06 Sep 2008
Mamet's latest intrigues, but never lives up to its full potential. Much of the artificially mannered dialogue is gone, but contrived plot points distract from the central themes. Emily Mortimer is great in her feisty IP attorney scene, but her non-legal scenes are often awkward and undeveloped.
Ejiofor continues to impress as a martial arts instructor torn between his impossible ideals and his increasingly precarious financial circumstances. This struggle is the heart of the film and is interesting enough to recommend it to Mamet fans.
On the other hand, if you're looking for beat-em-up action, this will surely disappoint. It's character study with a handful of less than impressive action scenes mixed in.
This review of Redbelt (2008) was written by Richard S on 06 Sep 2008.
Redbelt has generally received positive reviews.
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