Review of The Mill and the Cross (2011) by Alec B — 04 Nov 2011
Ever been to one of those Colonial Recreations, perfect for class field trips, like we have here in New York City at Van Cortlandt Park? Ever donned a Virtual Reality mask? Ever played an RPG that put you through the day to day of a real or imagined world?
That is how I would describe this film to someone before actually getting to the film itself. TMATC is not art for entertainment's sake, it is art for art's sake, and it succeeds for those who allow it to work from that premise.
It works for: Those who will allow themselves to be immersed in the quotidien life of Breugel's Flanders, whether it be waking to start up the mill, or being murdered by the Inquisition. Those who enjoy the You Are There feel of planning the piece alongside Hauer and York, entering it, deconstructing it and understanding the replacing of Calvary with present-day Flanders. Fans of Hauer (Blade Runner, The Osterman Weekend, Batman Begins), York (Romeo and Juliet, Logan's Run, Austin Powers) and Rampling (Georgy Girl, The Verdict, Swimming Pool).
It works against: People without a strong degree of patience (If you couldn't get through Gus Van Sant's Gerry, you won't get through this). Art-house haters. Indie-film haters. People who need action in films. Anyone conditioned by the American movie system.
This review of The Mill and the Cross (2011) was written by Alec B on 04 Nov 2011.
The Mill and the Cross has generally received positive reviews.
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