Review of Silence (2016) by Sheldon C — 26 Feb 2017

Martin Scorsese's SILENCE is not only a monumental undertaking, but it is also the incredible immersion of filmmaking that is epic, powerful, dramatic, and deep. This grand experience hits on all cylinders and is as unrelenting as it is thought-provoking; it is a film that is easily not for everyone given its length and its sensitive religious themes, but if one gives in to the sheer scope of the film, it is both extremely rewarding and a cinematic narrative that is not easy to forget.

Scorsese expertly takes his time, letting scenes play out with plenty of moments to breathe - a pace that allows the intensity of the film to really settle in - complementing his heavy-handed story with the stunning visual work by cinematographer Rodrigo Prieto (every frame is a painting, from vast and beautifully-composed exteriors in pristine locations to the warmth and intimacy of interior candlelit scenes). It is a powerhouse scene after another powerhouse scene, and is anchored by strong performances by Andrew Garfield and, later, Liam Neeson -- both roles that one can initially imagine to be quite difficult to portray but instead are fully lived up to and realized - Garfield creates an utmost frustration out of his character that will undoubtedly provoke viewers, hence, a most effective performance; whereas Neeson imbues his character with an ambiguity and wiseness that makes for a satisfying yet different juxtaposition to, say, Marlon Brando's Colonel Kurtz in Apocalypse Now.

SILENCE may not be as appreciated as it should be, but it is a film that will most likely grow in stature over time. It is a masterpiece made by a master operating at the top of his game who decided to dip his hands in a different playing field entirely. It is an epic drama that begs questions of faith from various angles and viewpoints - an achievement that is both bold and challenging - and ultimately, a cinematic work of exquisite and painterly art.