Review of The Rover (2014) by Quincytheodore — 11 Mar 2015

I can guess the director must have played a lot of Grand Theft Auto games. The Rover is mercilessly violence almost to the point of desensitization, and it's downright amazing. This is far from usual action flick, presented in exclusively barren setting, it bides its time and delivers every blows unapologetically. The two leads perform splendidly, conveying rugged emotions with either less than subtle words or crude gestures.

Eric (Guy Pearce) has the displeasure of having his car stolen. Fueled by willpower he chases the group of robbers who stole the beloved car. On his lone crusade he serendipitously meets with one of the members who got shot, Rey (Robert Pattinson), a slightly mentally challenged young man. These two have the most awkward yet surprisingly fascinating chemistry.

Guy Pearce is stone cold, barely communicating his intents and when he does, he utters it in such unpleasant way. Meanwhile Robert Pattinson is a timid yet volatile man, who by his nature is pretty impressionable. If there's any criticism for his acting after certain vampire series, he more than makes up for it. Their relationship is very bizarre, united only by a common goal. It's more appropriate that they tolerate each other, but after a while this symbiosis gradually affects both of them.

Visual is a heavy reminder of Mad Max, done in outback where only sun shines and not much else. Brutal gore litters the movie, I've seen many use of violence in a movie, but this one certainly should be watched with tact. Soundtracks are also impressive, the songs are highly unexpected yet they work marvelously for the theme.

Somehow the uncompromising nature does hamper the film, the logic and also logistic are a bit implausible. It'd be better if it had more narrative or back story of the place or characters since people are so unsympathetic towards each other, it's a miracle that the outback is still populated. Everything is so strange, and while this eccentric nature has merit, but it may alienate some audience.

The Rover is a muddy arduous chase, yet it's brilliantly captivating beneath all the dust and blood.