Review of The Revenant (2015) by Mike D — 24 Sep 2016

'The Revenant' is perhaps one of the most beautifully shot Best Picture winners in cinematic history. Set in the snow-covered terrain of 1820s upper midwest, the film stars Leonardo DiCaprio as an American hunter Hugh Glass who must brave attacks from natives, backstabbing peers, a grizzly bear mauling and - maybe harshest of all - the elements.

While one could assume 'Revenant' is a great film based on its multiple awards (including deserving wins for DiCaprio and director Alejandro G. Inarritu), critical acclaim and solid box office, it's really more than that. There are so many special aspects of 'Revenant' that it's hard to list them all, but one of the standout moments includes the impressive single-shot scene at the outset of the film when the fur trappers' camp is raided by natives. The cinematography found throughout is impeccable, with vast, rugged landscapes shots that highlight nature in all its glory. The score is also very fitting, with its repetitive chords ominous and haunting.

But it's the story that really brings 'Revenant' together. The amount of hardships Glass experiences while struggling through the wilderness should be enough to break any man down, but the memories of his wife and son are strong enough to fuel his determination. Sure, the fixation on revenge is not the most redeeming quality here, but given the circumstances, no one can question why he feels the way he does.

'The Revenant' is so unlike other films that have hit theaters recently that it stands out for its uniqueness, and is a nice example of a critically beloved film aligns with the general public's taste.