Run time: 1h 57m
Intro
Sam Mendes is a director who has cemented himself as a very impressive film maker, with the likes of “Skyfall”, “1917”and “Revolutionary Road” being part of his cinematic ensemble. However, it is one of his ealier works, by the name of “Road to Perdition”, that I will be reviewing for this week.
With a star-studded cast and interesting premise, I had been told lots of good things about this film and decided to see for myself what the fuss is all about.
Plot
The plot centres around an Enforcer, named Mike Sullivan (played by Tom Hanks), who works for a midwestern mobster. Sullivan’s eldest son, Michael, witnesses a murder by a member of the mob putting their whole family in danger. Sullivan fights to keep his family safe ditching his ties to the gang as he tries to escape.
The story’s premise made for an intense, thrilling watch and that is why I will award it an 8.5/10.
Acting
The movie’s cast is jam packed with hollywood stars and acting legends with the likes of Jude Law, Daniel Craig, Stanley Tucci and Jennifer Jason Leigh, accompanying Tom Hanks as the lead. It is partly down to them that the film is so emotionally impactful.
A star-studded cast brought their A-game to this film earning them an 8.5/10 rating.
Characters
The protagonist, Sullivan, and his son, Michael, are sympathetic characters, that have a dynamic filled with deep emotion. Depsite being a loyal worker for his ganster boss, Sullivan chooses to oppose him in an attempt to protect his helpless son, which perfectly displays his strong morals. In contrast to Sullivan the antagonists, ‘Connor Rooney’ and ‘Harlen Maguire’ are cold and hateful personalities.
The movie possesses strong characters that fit perfectly it’s story. Therefore, I think it warrants an 8/10 rating.
Dialogue
The dialogue carries a lot of the philosophical perspectives presented in the film such as morals and family. There are numerous lines which keep you fantasising over your own introspections long after the credits role.
The script was meticulously created to convey the engrossing topics that Mendes introduces therefore, I award it an 8.5/10.
Music
The music was composed by Thomas Newman, who really brought a melancholic sadness to the film with his use of bagpipes in multiple songs from the soundtrack. The score is pulsating with emotion which does improve the film as a whole.
Newman’s subtle, yet impactful music is why I’ll be giving the film’s soundtrack an 8.5/10 rating.
Final verdict
Did I find this tense crime thriller enjoyable? Yes, I did. I was particular impressed by the films stellar ending, leaving a good impression on me after watching. A great performance from the cast paired with sympathetic characters is why I will be recommending this film to those who haven’t seen it before.