Synopsis: Read on IMDB
Should you watch this movie? Yes, you should. It is a very interesting spin on the biblical tale; it almost feels like an unrelated fantasy flick!
Well, this is a widely-know story, but in case you’re no familiar with it, here goes: This omniscient, omnipresent being called “the Creator” grows wary of mankind’s wickedness, so he decides to destroy it. But since not all of his creation is as naughty as men, he decides to save the innocent, meaning all the animals. But, he will need some help. He comes to Noah in a dream and gives him (and his family: wife Naameh, sons Shem, Ham, and Japhet, adoptive daughter Ila) the task of building an ark to house all the innocent before the destruction of all of humanity come via means of a flood.
The director, Darren Aronofski put himself in a very interesting position by directing a tale from the Bible, but he has done a pretty good job in taking mainstream and not just for the pious / religious fanatic. The movie is visually stunning, on par with some of the best fantasy flick movies out there. He took a couple of “artistic liberties” with the story without going too far away that it will offend (not the moderates, at least). It is suitable for both secular and moderately religious audiences. It appears those in the more religious have had issues with the movie’s “accuracy” and the lack of use of the word “God”. Most Islamic nations have even banned the movie.
The movies pairs up Russel Crowe and Jennifer Conelly once more, in the roles of Noah and his wife Naameh respectively (how curious had it been the other way around). They both deliver very strong performances together with supporting cast Anthony Hopkins, Emma Watson, Logan Leerman, Ray Winstone, Douglas Booth. Hence the movie is both style and substance!
Bechdel Test: Pass
1. It has to have at least two [named] women in it Yes. Of the whole cast 2 of the main characters are women, Naameh (Jennifer Connelly) and Ila (Emma Watson)
2. Who talk to each other They do, althought not often. You’d think they would considering they are the only family around. Oh well.
3. About something besides a man Well yes, but the conversations don’t get much encouraging. Most of their interactions are reduced to fertility and child bearing, so not a lot of progress here!
Does it matter? It does because the Bible is not particularly kind with women in its stories, so it is a good thing to see these women are strong and are partners to the men rathen than “vessels” to hold their children. Although they often are portrayed like that, it is not always the message. Well, this was not exactly the kindest period to be a woman anyway…
Paola’s mood after watching this movie:
0 Comments