Monday, March 17, 2008

Review: Into the Wild


Sean Penn's epic film of a young man's, Christopher McCandless (played by Emile Hirsch), journey across the country and eventually into the Alaskan wilderness is a very deep and resonating film. The story unfolds as McCandless graduates from college and gives away his life savings and begins his journey across country. Along the way he meets many different and complex characters which mold who he becomes.
Sean Penn has always wowed me on the screen but he really surprised me behind the camera. This film is an astounding journey of finding a true identity within one's self. The character development is deep and dynamic. Acting is top notch with Hirsch commanding a leading role supported by the likes of Vince Vaughn and William Hurt. The real gem of the movie is the cinematic scenery. The Alaskan wilderness captures the desolate isolation and at the same time peaceful serenity that McCandless confines himself in. The plot flow was a little untypical, always switching from his journey across the country back to his final weeks in the Alaskan wilderness. It was at times a little confusing but more so effective. The score was top notch and really complemented the evolution of McCandless and his journey.
I found this a very touching and emotionally stirring journey of a man searching for himself, forgiveness, and an Alaskan adventure. I give it four out of five chomps.

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