Review of The Duellists (1977) by Fong K — 28 Dec 2017
I can't believe this is Ridley's first movie. Already from the beginning, it draws you in with a sword battle. The setting and atmosphere are wonderful. It's easy to see that Ridley Scott was really inspired by Barry Lyndon for his first movie. Ridley did a great job at trying to capture painting-like shots just as Kubrick did. But I have to say it doesn't outdo Kubrick's shots. He really mastered it and did it in such a elegant way.
The same pretty and lovely blue-eyed girl that was in Barry Lyndon makes an appearance in this movie. The french-looking girl who is partners with Hubert, is looker. Wow.
The locations in this movie are absolutely breathtaking. Makes me want to go and visit and probably stay. There's also parts that are gritty and unclean which adds to the charm and appeal of the movie. Very harsh and bleak at times, especially in Russia. I love movies that transport me to a certain time and place and this movie is no exception.
Harvey Keitel's character has such a bloodlust and such a temper and ego that right from the beginning, you wish him bad luck and hope that he doesn't last very long. He just a punk. In the end though, justice was served. Even though it wasn't really what I expected to happen it was good. And that last shot of the English countryside was beautiful.
Overall, great movie that I would probably have to watch again.
This review of The Duellists (1977) was written by Fong K on 28 Dec 2017.
The Duellists has generally received very positive reviews.
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