We see repeatedly that the two friends can understand each other because they are at peace with the world and in tune with their surroundings, so that their bond transcends mere language. The scenes with Whitaker and his best friend, a Haitian ice cream vendor provide this film with true heart and soul. In many ways the film works as commentary on the values of modern society. At least just as much time is spent following Whitaker through his day to day life as he interacts with people in his community as is spent on the action parts of the plot. The third thing that the film does really well is it is character and not plot driven. It's a technique that helps set the tone of the film and makes it a completely absorbing experience. Often times the film breaks from the action just to linger on the narration and let in sink in. As the film's tale unfolds we do need learn about the Way of the Samurai through the eastern philosophy Whitaker espouses as he narrates the film. This aspect of the film is the most important of all even more so than Whitaker's superb performance. Furthermore we have the film's philosophy. Whitaker's resolve shines through the screen and through his subsequent acting the pace builds until we reach the film's ultimate battle, which is a really, really good fight scene-one of the most satisfying ever filmed. Once that decision is made and we realize Whitaker's full fury will now be unleashed upon his enemies, it sends a tingle up the spine of the viewer. There's one scene where a grievous wrong has been done and we see Whitaker absorb the devastation, then he narrates that when a making decision it should be done in the space of seven breathes. In every scene and every frame, through both action and inaction we know he is being of awesome power. First is the duality of the film's coolness factor and the strength of Whitaker's performance. ![]() But since he's a samurai and not just a normal hitman this proves to be a huge mistake for them. When a job for the mob goes wrong they decide to cut their losses and put a hit out on him. ![]() Whitaker is Ghost Dog, a New York hitman who lives by the code of the ancient samurai. Ghost Dog: Way of the Samurai * * * * Stars Forest Whitaker stars in this amazingly good character driven film.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |