Review of The Rover (2014) by Shaunab — 19 Jun 2014

Without the performance of the actors breathing incredible genius into the main characters, this movie could have easily not delivered. This as I found myself pondering long after, how could so much be conveyed and witnessed in the expressions and stillness of these characters with such sparing use of dialogue? Genius, that's how! Casting was critical! It was mastery in the artists that came together to breath life into a story that unfolds a potential for humanity if we continue on this path of separation. The reality of it grips you. You see what humanity becomes under desolate conditions. It needs to be seen and felt by humanity.

Having watched David Michod's first masterpiece, Animal Kingdom, he absolutely succeeded in delivering yet another 'masterpiece' of incredible artistry; from a story that was intense, and kept you riveted, to the incredible and stark, blunt, cinematography, and outstanding creative and captivating performances from lead actors Guy Pearce and Robert Pattinson. Michod's unique artistic style and brilliance is definitely evident in both of his movies.

These two actors, with very little dialogue and much silence, so masterfully performed, conveyed depth of character that secured an emotional connection for each. Guy Pearce showcased the rawness of his character, Eric, who he portrays as hardened and desensitized by his past journey, while Robert Pattinson showcased Rey as the child-like innocence, hope and purity that survived the collapse of society and civilized order -- after some sort of man made apocalypse, which many believe is humanity's biggest future enemy. Pattinson delivered a thoroughly convincing performance for a character with Rey's challenges, a role that could have easily gone so wrong if overplayed as so many have done in similar roles. He was brilliant, as was Pearce. Their creative interpretation of these characters is artistry in itself. A brilliant piece of work that needs to be seen!

The audience was 60% Male and 40% female. After the movie was over, I remained in my seat, as did others, as I felt torn and pondered it's totality. It was worth the 1-1/2 hour drive to get there. I'll be seeing it many more times. It needs to be soaked in.