I decided to take a trip to Regal Cinemas to view what seemed to be an action-packed film with a solid cast. Little did I know what was about to unravel before me.
Mad Max is one massive post-apocalyptic race in which unlikely enemies become trusted allies and a world of hideously powerful creatures fight to obtain pure human lives. If I had to sum up the movie in three words, they would be strength, survival, and sacrifice. This film is absolutely insane. You will leave the theatre somewhat stuck in full-on action mode, wanting to fight off powdery, cannibalistic human beings.
The cast includes Max, played by Tom Hardy, who initially seeks solely freedom, but inevitably decides to change his ways. The beautiful Charlize Theron plays the sharp female protagonist, Furiosa, who is death-defying, violent, a respected leader, and a total badass. It’s great. Other actors you may recognize include Nicholas Hoult and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley.
As for techniques, I felt as if I were hallucinating almost the entire time. There is an endless supply of explosives and fast cuts. Shots that are meant to show detail are almost overly zoomed in. On the contrary, shots that are meant to show the entire situation so one can fully realize what is happening are overly zoomed out. I found many moments where the characters themselves are caught marveling at the epicness playing out in front of them along with the audience.
The soundtrack includes a constant, intense drumming, and some electric guitar performed live by Mr. Creepy No Face.
I also couldn’t help but notice how voices are enhanced in this film. Even though the characters should sound distant when far away, they are always hauntingly right there in your face. Every word spoken has a meaning and is crucial to the plot. There is no funny business or pointless conversation.
Mad Max is one of the best action films I’ve seen in a while. In a world where poverty-stricken people lie hopeless in a desert, the traditional battle of good versus evil rages on for a full two hours. You don’t want to miss this one.