I find it interesting when filmmakers present the "unthinkable" to an audience and we are asked the question of "How far are you willing to go?" Some writers choose to present the unthinkable in horror films like the Saw franchise, some choose to ask the question as a psychological thriller like the German film Das Experiment (USA remake scheduled to hit theaters some time this year), and others present the idea as a social commentary like Unthinkable. But the question still remains -- How far would you go? And who really is the "bad guy" when things get a little out of control?
Unthinkable is a rehashed storyline with modern relevance. Using a recognizable plot, writer Peter Woodward and director Gregor Jordan give us an amazing social commentary. I personally had not thought much about what would happen if a terrorists was truly to hit us at home, and the extent at which our government would go to get the answers needed to keep us safe. Yet if we really were in danger, I don't know how I would feel if the measures taken in this film came to light. I don't know if I would feel ok with "doing whatever is needed to get it done" and watching the cast struggle with their choices and actions make me question what I would do if I had to make a decision of that magnitude.
I will say that I am saddened to see that Unthinkable has not yet, and most likely will never see a large theatrical release as it presents ideas and questions that are relevant for our current time. As this film will be released on DVD June 15, I would highly recommend that you go out to your local Blockbuster or other video rental shop to see if they carry the film and rent it. Even check your local Redbox to see if they will be carrying this psychological thriller that will surely leave you with mixed feelings and something to talk about.
Unthinkable is a film of the time and the cast chosen to portray the characters did an amazing job with such a difficult topic. Of course we have all seen Samuel L. Jackson play some serious badass characters, but his portrayal of 'H' is like no other character he has played before. The choices and actions he is forced to make as he aids the FBI and US government to keep the American people safe are choices that are 100% unthinkable. I do not envy a person who is faced with such choices, and watching his own internal battle to justify his actions makes this character "real". I believe whole heartedly that 'H' is out there somewhere makes these difficult decisions. Along side Jackson, Carrie-Ann Moss (The Matrix) plays Agent Helen Brody who becomes H's moral compass. It is Agent Brody that not only helps H get through the 4 days that the 97 minute film covers, but he looks to her to see how far is too far. None of this would be possible if we did not have an antagonist. The suspected terrorist Younger is played by the amazing English actor Michael Sheen (Frost/Nixon, New Moon and Underworld). The ensemble cast is full of talent and gives you a believable tale of events that are unthinkable.
I give Unthinkable a 4.5 out of 5. Please look for it on June 15 and check it out for yourself. You will not be sorry.
** Viewers should have a strong stomach **
No comments:
Post a Comment