Review of The Book of Eli (2010) by Robbie L — 30 Jun 2015

Despite the underwhelming critical response, The Book of Eli remains one of my favorite films and one of best examples of post-apocalyptic filmmaking in a genre that frankly, looks a little post-apocalyptic itself.

Although The Book of Eli attracts some complaints regarding its relation to The Road and other films, what sets Eli apart is the extremely high production value, striking landscape and ideal cast, not to mention the excellent usage of symbolism and carefully crafted nuance all throughout the film.

Lost in the critical dribble was the fact that The Book of Eli pulled off one of the most impressive plot twists in recent film history, managing to effectively trick the audience through a bit of old fashioned mystery and a well designed color palette that perfectly complimented the symbolic nature of the film.

This twist, combined with a storyline layered with religious and moral symbolism (unpopular with the critics, I'm sure), makes for a fantastic ride. Add in some incredible action sequences, a top notch Atticus Ross helmed soundtrack and career best performances from Washington, Oldman and Kunis and you have the makings of the film that The Road should have been.

Where most post-apocalyptic films (The Road included) bash you over the head with ultra dark landscape shots and hopeless neo-noir derivative, Eli manages to add spice to this formula, utilizing a bit of nostalgia and extremely effective product placement to make everything come together.

This is perfectly highlighted in a scene with Eli, Beats headphones and an old iPod, which, besides being the only instance of Beats promotion in a film I will ever tolerate, is one of the best scenes in the last decade or two of film history, poignantly hinting at Eli's humanity, touching on what is lost in the modern era and setting the stage for the fantastic film to come.

Ultimately, The Book of Eli, lost on the highbrow critics, is a must watch for any fan of good cinema.