Review of The Messenger (2009) by Jc E — 01 Jun 2010
What could have been a very harrowing film turns out to be a pretty depressing feature that is marred by annoying anti-war sentiments too common in films like these. Kept above abysmal by the strong performance by the underrated Ben Foster (Pandorum), this movie never achieves what it could have in more capable hands with a less-agenda driven script.
It's not blatant in its approach, but there are clear left-leaning anecdotes that tarnish the film. Additionally, there's no clear resolution, and the film just feels shoddy, due partly to the unbelievable characters personified by Woody Harrelson (Zombieland) and Samantha Morton (Synecdoche, New York).
Steve Buscemi (Big Fish), however, delivers a powerful performance in his short time on screen, and will likely be the one memory the viewer has left of the film.
This review of The Messenger (2009) was written by Jc E on 01 Jun 2010.
The Messenger has generally received positive reviews.
Was this review helpful?
