Review of The Proposition (2005) by Chris B — 20 Jan 2015
John Hillcoat's Outback western, written by musician Nick Cave, is as brutal and menacing as the landscape in which his film is set. Benoît Delhomme photographs with the most gorgeous colour pallet as Charlie Burns (Guy Pearce) tries to save himself and his younger brother Mike (an engaging Richard Wilson) from the hangman's noose by turning in their malicious older brother Arthur (a solid Danny Huston).
It's the sort of premise that invites a number of moral conflicts, and such the talent that Pearce is, we are able to see the burden of his dilemma without needing them to be discussed; it truly is a remarkable performance.
There's also complexity in the supporting characters. Ray Winstone and Emily Watson are particularly fine; his own moral compass is challenged when trying to keep his side of the proposition, and she delivers the film's most memorable scene when sitting in a bathtub, describing a dream.
A film that is as beautiful as it is ugly, 'The Proposition' is an intense experience.
This review of The Proposition (2005) was written by Chris B on 20 Jan 2015.
The Proposition has generally received very positive reviews.
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