The East (2013), Zal Batmanglij
Melbourne International Film Festival 2013
4/5
Don't be fooled by the poster, this is an intense thriller a notch above the rest. Starring Brit Marling (Another Earth) as Jane/ Sarah an intelligence agent assigned to infiltrate an eco-terror group this is an ethically and emotionally ponderous film. While the plot is relatively predictable Marling's performance gives the whole story an authentic emotional centre and you find yourself really drawn in. The visuals are good and the dialogue quite restrained, allowing the visuals and performances to tell the story. While the scenes with the cult seem outlandish to begin with, it's pretty tame in comparison to depictions of cults like that in Martha Marcy May Marlene (2012). The supporting cast is excellent including Alexander Skarsgard (best known for his role in True Blood), Ellen Page (Hard Candy, Juno) who is surprisingly restrained, Patricia Clarkson (Vicki Christina Barcelona) who takes a break from her usual bubbly or excitable roles for this more restrained, cold and corporate look and Jason Ritter (Good Dick) who plays Jane/ Sarah's real life boyfriend. On the whole, a really interesting film and although it had some obvious plot flaws the subject matter and performances are enjoyable and intense.
No comments:
Post a Comment