Review of Twelve Monkeys (1995) by Austin A — 22 Jun 2011

'12 Monkeys' remains one of Terry Gilliam's most commercially successful movies. And its not hard to see why. The movie contains familiar plot-elements such as Time Travel, post-apocalyptic worlds, lunatic asylums, and Bruce Willis - whilst presenting it in ways not seen before. It is most likely Gilliam's most easily accessible movie (which is certainly not a bad thing) - borrowing closely from 'Total Recall' and others, and a great place to start if one wishes to explore the filmography of an incredibly underrated yet genius auteur.

Audiences were particularly impressed with the young yet rising star: Brad Pitt. He brings an interesting presence which also bought most of the Box-Office earnings in. I really wanted to know more about the character, but I guess that's not the point...

Gilliam presents a bleak view of the future, which even when visiting the past seems unchangeable. It is not a mission to save the world, but merely a mission to save what is left of it in the future. This adds far more depth - as we are left to face the inevitable with nothing that can be done despite our heroes efforts. Gilliam once again creates a lose-lose scenario, where the victory IS there, but is far more ambiguous and spiritual than most movies.

'12 Monkeys' is an intelligent and innovative Sci-Fi, yet is much easier to become immersed in and understood then Gilliam's other work.