Review of The Way Back (2011) by Jc E — 08 Jun 2011
Though this film from writer/director Peter Weir (Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World) is epic in scope, it doesn't ever really reverberate emotionally. However, it's well-cast, well-acted, and does have a sense of grandeur that you're not likely to find in most films nowadays.
The ensemble cast is comprised of Jim Sturgess (Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole), Ed Harris (The Abyss), Mark Strong (Kick-Ass), Saoirse Ronan (Hanna), and Colin Farrell (Hart's War), who all do quite well with their respective roles, be they large or small.
Still, the story only partially works. The characters are set in difficult circumstances with a literal tough road ahead of them, but the impact of the story never really settles with the viewer. The scope of the picture is massive and poises itself to sweep the viewer off their feet, but it is only marginally successful.
It's beautifully filmed, though, and a viewing isn't a waste of time, but it doesn't scale the emotional heights that it sets for itself entirely.
This review of The Way Back (2011) was written by Jc E on 08 Jun 2011.
The Way Back has generally received positive reviews.
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