Director: Peter Weir
Cast: Russell Crowe, Paul Bettany, James D’Arcy, Robert Pugh
Have I Seen it Before: Never, and I’m not entirely sure why. It was Oscar bait in one of those years where I saw everything, regardless of whether it was award worthy or not. Hell, I saw Gigli (2003) twice*, what was stopping me here?
Did I Like It: Right out of the gate, I can tell I’m going to forgive this movie any number of sins it might commit for the rest of its runtime. I was first introduced to the idea by the DVD commentaries of Nicholas Meyer, but I fully admit someone else may have originated from someone else. Nearly every movie that is set in a historical—or for that matter, fantastical—era naturally gravitates to be a product the age in in which it is made. Between the choices in cinematography, costuming, and dialogue choices, one can guess when a film was made within about five years. Hell, choices in hairdressing alone can tip a film’s hand almost immediately.
I don’t know if this film will continue to age as well, but it could have easily been made last year, or even thirty years ago, instead being only seventeen years old. All too often, the artists behind cinema produce their work aiming only at the initial exhibition. Every movie ever made is going to spend the near totality of its existence on TVs in the years to follow. More filmmakers should have in the back of their mind how their films will play in the years to come. Weir should be commended for this.
The story might be faulted for being too simple, but I think it is another secret strength. If the plot can be whittled down to its basic elements (the British ship has some problems while hunting an enemy French vessel, prevails honorably, but at a cost) then the delicate work of the photography and other artistry can shine through.
*Although only once in the theater. Even I have my limits.