Sep 8, 2009

Inglourious Basterds

Inglourious Basterds is a triumphant and exciting ride on the cinema express. In this superb film Quentin Tarantino once again displays his propensity for producing cinema that is entertaining, hilarious and downright thrilling. Heavy on dialogue and replete with eye shattering violence, this film is perfectly executed with some finely tuned performances.

Inglourious Basterds is set in World War II and is told in 5 captivating chapters. We follow the group of 'Basterds' led by Aldo Raine (Brad Pitt). All Jewish, they are dropped into Nazi-occupied France in 1941 with the mission to kill as many Nazis as possible. Competing against them is SS Colonel Hans Landa (Christoph Waltz) who is busy hunting as many Jews as possible. The film switches to 1944 where we find a grand climax as Raine hatches a plan to kill the German High Command (including Hitler) at a film premiere. At the same time the young Jewish owner of the cinema, Shosanna Dreyfus (Melanie Laurent) is plotting her own act of destruction. I dare not give anymore of the plot away, as it would certainly ruin the innate timing and tension of this remarakble piece. Suffice to say that this is a stunning demonstration of the strength of cinema. Long scenes of finely written dialogue will hold you in rapture, creating great periods of tension and drama. There is also that vital Tarantino humour that is well loved, as well as his customary splatter violence that could make you avert your eyes at certain times. Pitt is outstanding as the slightly deranged and completely charismatic Raine, but Waltz steals the limelight as the thorough and slightly repulsive Landa. There is also a great cameo by Mile Myers as an English general. Music is also a great strength, as expected, expertly added where it aids the action on screen. This film is an homage to the greats of yesteryear and will certainly create film makers in the future who will make their own tributes to the great Tarantino.

2 Comments:

  • At September 08, 2009 , Anonymous Karen said...

    That was the sound of my Walther pointed right at your testicles.

     
  • At September 09, 2009 , Anonymous geoff said...

    Have to say Colonel Landa is QT's best character since Jules Winnfield. And you are right about the tension in this film. Had me at the edge of my seat for 2.5 hours.. amazing.

     

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