13 Responses to “Frack this! I need a nap”

1. Michael
   December 18th, 2006 @ 2:42 pm

   Well I think Mel is one of the only directors that is tackling historical events such as the fall of the Mayan empire and the life of JC. I think that true realism is going to the wayside to make way for ‘reality’, which isn’t reality as it is more an elaboration of a script (Laguna Beach etc..) Where I think Apocalypto shines is in the gravity of the film. The story strikes everyone in a unique way as there are aspects of the story that translate to any ones life.

   There are no aspects to modernize the experience, we are shown life as it truly was before the onset of more advanced civilization, how easy it is to die and how death was such a part of every day life. Horrifying and desperate to us it as it may be, it is intrinsically educational and thought provoking.

   He did not just make an action film as there are very few special effects, another plus IMHO. I love older black and white movies like 12 Angry Men, that utilize only great stories to be great, not millions of Orcs at Helms Deep…

   The Passion is a different story for me because as a christian, it touched me in a different way then I would think it would most. However the same characteristics apply, stark realism, an ethereal since of presence almost like time travel, humanization and advanced development of characters, and the high art film staples of symbolism, foreshadowing, and sarcasm.

   I think Mel will join the ranks of Coppola, Welles, and Arnofsky soon. So what if he is a little nutso.

2. Meow
   December 18th, 2006 @ 3:29 pm

   **note – I’m not eloquent. And I don’t edit as I should. Pardon the ramble**

   Nutso bugs me, and this is coming from someone who’s certifiable. I can’t get past the things that have been said. But, I’m sensitive.

   Why do those events warrant more importance than say, the Crusades?

   As for his film making – The reason I won’t see Apocalypto is because of Passion of the Christ. I don’t trust his narrative point of view. When Passion came out, I was in a class called “The New Testament as Literature,” and our class went together and then analyzed it as a work of art. I felt like the violence was indulgent and utilized more as a shock tactic than to teach a lesson or illuminate the masses to the pain that Christ may have felt. I didn’t connect with the film spiritually, as many did, because I’m not Christian. I almost believe you have to be a devoted follower to understand that movie. It’s like being on the outside of a culture, looking in. I’m not lamenting my place, but I still find that movie lacking any kind of artistic worth. There is no doubt that all film makers imbue their works with their point of view and thought. Why else would they make films? Gibson doesn’t speak to me and I think placing him in the company of Coppola and Welles is doing a disservice to those proven masters.

   My feathers get more than a little ruffled by those who bag on the use of special effects. It’s not a crutch, it’s a tool, just like Foley art and lighting. If you took away all of the special effects in LOTR, then you wouldn’t have much to look at. Fantasy films always rely upon special effects. It’s the nature of the beast. And I don’t argue on the genius of 12 Angry Men but it’s not even remotely related. I don’t know if it’s fair to compare the two.

   I think this one is going to be a Netflix experience for me. I’m honestly too common for “high art” films. It’s a trait I am more than willing to reveal. And that could also be the reason why I didn’t like or understand Passion. But it is what it is, and instead of seeing Apocalypto, I’ll just watch The Two Towers again.

3. Michael
   December 18th, 2006 @ 4:49 pm

   Please Forgive the Rant

   Well I think we run into a few problems. Sanity is judged by the contraints of society. If a nation is at war then murder is justified, at peace then it is just plain murder. This is why I don’t get offended when I hear racism, prejudice, etc of any kind, because it is just a learned behavior.

   So IMHO, to call him certifiable is relative. To him, with his wacked out Nazi father, he probably thinks his behavior is normal. Besides, who else can make Danny Glover look good in a movie? j/p..

   Lets throw The Passion to the wayside, because that is too deep a discussion for a mere critique of a film based on the cinematography, lighting, story, etc.

   Bagging on special effects is common these days because it is very easy to put a film out that has no story, and use special effects to make up for it. LOR is not a good example, because it was a good story when it was written a long time ago.

   This is mainly the reason why I believe the gold age of sci-fi has come and gone. The imagination that it takes to develop a story with simple tools is no longer a necessity.

   Regarding the violence, looking at Apocalypto I did not see much that was historically inaccurate. While I think he did focus mainly on the violence, this was done to drive home a point. That the Mayan’s, while one of the most advanced civilizations of the ancient world, were still utter barbarians in comparasion to current standards and prevailing beliefs, and that death was a part of their life.

   I enjoy directors that pull their audience back to the very source of truth. Rather than those who paint more of a picture of what could or might of been. In actuality, death was a day to day occurance, it did not need to be portrayed that way, it was reality.

   Look at Welles, in classics like Touch of Evil, he wanted to portray the seedly underworld of Mexico and the injustice and hypocracy that existed within the law, he didn’t merely tell a murder mystery.

   IMHO, in Coppola’s last film, it was clear that he was heading in direction of more risque (sp?) and avantgaurde films, maybe for the same reason that Gibson produces such films today. I’ll admitt this is all speculation and opinion.

   Gibson’s cinematic achievement I believe cannot be judged on the basis of Gibson’s character. True he imbue’s himself in his work, however I think the work has great merit, and I do believe I am not alone as the majority of the press gave rave reviews.

   I would think it unfortunate that anyone would chose not to see a flim based on the creator. How many Hollywood directors were utter miscreants, perverts, and oddities. (Hughes, Polanski, Bertolucci)

   I would say go see the film, and judge not upon the creator, but the creation itself. By not seeing or not seeing you aren’t hurting Mel, he’ll be rich for the rest of his life. Besides, if they make another leathal weapon i’ll pee myself.

4. hollie
   December 18th, 2006 @ 5:54 pm

   I dont know Michael, do I? ROllins??? any who.. Loved APocalypto… a little garish and squeemish in some sections, but altogether nicely done I think… Has anyone seen the Nativity yet? wondering what reviewers are sayong, before I go. E- you must see Dear Frankie… I think you will like it… It is not a Great Film, but it is a good one.

5. Michael
   December 18th, 2006 @ 6:22 pm

   Hmm, where did my reply go? No, you don’t know me. I know Claire.

6. Claire
   December 18th, 2006 @ 11:40 pm

   Do I need to mediate? If it helps any, I thought the Passion was ok until the very end with the raindrop. And I thought Mel Gibson was a great actor until he turned all fanatic about his religion and started to spread his hate around. In Apoclypto’s defense, I do think it looks pretty but the story looks like it will bore me to tears. All in all, nothing really matters…

   … to me. (I had to say it!!)

7. Claire
   December 19th, 2006 @ 8:50 am

   I hope no one hates each other now…

8. Meow
   December 19th, 2006 @ 9:04 am

   If they make another Lethal Weapon, I will shoot him.

   I respect your opinion, but the way I make my little, meek view heard is through my ten dollars. I took offense at his viewpoint, and as such, will remain at home while others will see and probably enjoy the movie. I didn’t enjoy the Passion. That’s just another reason to stay home. Film making isn’t just a high art, it’s entertainment.
   I am easily amused.
   I am hard to offend.
   That’s not true. Racism does offend me. It’s a family thing – my father’s family specifically. They also believed that as a female child, I should remain silent and work on making tortillas or something instead of reading my books in the living room. In contrast, my mother relished my opinion and conversation, as much as you can without being disrespectful. I was encouraged to read in the living room or where ever my body fell with book in hand. I think a lot of words are just words, imbued with the power that we give them, but attitudes are different and they piss me off.

   And WordPress likes to eat entries and replies. It’s an evil creature with a beautiful back-end, but the comments can be kind of flaky.

9. Claire
   December 19th, 2006 @ 9:34 am

   I just hope, by linking up to Mike, I haven’t started some huge Mel Gibson blog comment war. We can all blame my sister if you like; he’s HER friend first and foremost.

10. Michael
    December 19th, 2006 @ 10:31 am

    Yes let us blame your sister I always enjoy a healthy conversation and I am happy to have had such an educated one with you Meow.

    I think you are not alone in your Mel Gibson feelings, I think there is room enough for lovers and haters of Mel.

    Can we compromise on Braveheart?

    I need to get a dog of my own, that isn’t such a bad idea.. I am watching this old sneezing boxer right now which i’m sure isn’t attractive.

    Yes Claire, enjoyment of fine food is a requirement. We always like to watch American Psycho because I am so Patrick Bateman. I keep coasters at the ready at all times just in case anyone wants a mineral water I’m sure girls aren’t crazy about that..

11. Meow
    December 19th, 2006 @ 11:24 am

    I like Mike Claire. Truly. It’s fun getting into debates! Especially when we both respect each other’s opinion (but I’m right..never forget that j/k)

    And Yes. I loved Braveheart. And I hate to admit it, but I loved the first Lethal Weapon. *sigh* My low-brow tastes are revealed.

    Dogs are fun. I would share ours (two beagles) but they are very fond of our couch and stealing pizza. Dogs really should have better manners.

    Okay. The coaster thing. A little freaky.

    And welcome to my blog Michael, my name is Erica.

    

12. Meow
    December 19th, 2006 @ 11:25 am

    Side note— I think it’s funny that this conversation came after a picture of my cat. Ahhh… inspiration.

13. Claire
    December 19th, 2006 @ 11:47 am

    Ha ha, I’m glad we can all get along.

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