Review of Twelve Monkeys (1995) by Prue H — 29 May 2012

The year's 2035-- and in 1996 the world pretty much ended when a deadly virus is released and kills everybody. Only a small society remains, and they live underground, most of them being scientists.

These scientists, who have technology far beyond there years, decide to send convict James Cole (Willis) to 1996 to try to stop the disease. By mistake, the scientists send him to 1990, where he is institutionalized, and treated by Dr.

Railly (Stowe), who tries as hard as she can to understand her patient. At the mental hospital he meets the loony son (Pitt) of a famous virus expert, but before he can find out more, James is sent back to 2035 again.

The scientists then proceed to send him back to 1996, and this time he kidnaps Dr. Railly to find out more-- but it just might be more complicated than any of them had hoped. "12 Monkeys" is one of those sci-fi films that really have no commercial appeal-- it's artistic, jumpy, and the plot is often very confusing.

But if you really take the time to sit down and watch this film, you'll see that this is one of the most inventive and absorbing science fiction movies ever put out by a major studio. Terry Gilliam, who obviously is not your everyday Hollywood director hides what could be a big-old actioner plot into a crazy, windy film that not only taunts its audience but makes them just as confused as the characters-- that's what makes it just so good.

The score, is simply excellent too, but the real reason to see this film is the performances. Willis, whom I always thought didn't have much range, gives his all time best performance here, and Stowe certainly gives one of her best two.

Putting it simply they got snubbed by the Academy-- big time. At least Pitt, who steals numerous scenes, got nominated for his portrayal of a twitchy, hyper mental patient-- he's the best one here.

"12 Monkeys" isn't for everybody, but in the end you'll be rewarded by its creativity. Recommended.