Review of Seraphim Falls (2007) by Matt W — 31 Dec 2008

The opening act: Pierce Brosnan becomes a 19th century Rambo, replete with booby traps, bowie knife and mutilative self-surgery. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Nevada mountains and almost totally devoid of dialogue Seraphim Falls starts superbly. Unfortunately, as Brosnan descends into the sweltering desert, the film too degenerates from magnificently preposterous action film into contrived and ham fisted symbolism, all for a dubious message: it is as futile to atone for one's sins as it is to hope to redeem them through violent revenge.

Still, all this makes Seraphim Falls a curious dichotmoy with several hilarious moments and some competent performances from the two leads. Worth a watch, even if the best thing about the film is the gorgeous Nevada scenery.