127 HOURS (REVIEW)
Rated
MA - 94 mins
James Franco, Amber Tamblyn, Kate Mara, Treat Williams, Clemence
Poesy
While most of this extraordinary film is heavy going,
this amazing true story of human survival is impossible not to be affected by.
Based on the bestselling book 'Between a rock in a Hard Place', this harrowing
account of mountain climber and all round extreme sport enthusiast, Aron Ralston,
details a life changing incident with no shocks spared.
It's
no secret that Aron's arm was pinned beneath a boulder for just over five days
and that he amputated the limb off with a blunt jack-knife. He's really just a
capable athlete in an extreme circumstance. Never one to disembark a challenge,
one early morning while off road bike riding through the arid American desert
across sandy terrain and rocky gorges, the free spirited Aron comes across two
pretty young female hikers. Like a pair of lost angels, Aron chaperones them to
a lovely secret swimming hole. Enjoying the natural beauty splashing and diving,
the happiness is short-lived; a fateful event is only moments away.
Upon
saying goodbye to his new friends, he runs off into the distance searching for
a new cave climbing thrill. The accident happens so quickly, it's breathtaking.
Rock formations soar above his head, standing isolated at the bottom of the canyon
with one arm stuck and only a few objects to possibly assist his survival. With
very little water or food on hand, flashbacks, memories and optical illusions
take control of his fragile mind as dehydration sets in. Aron documents most of
his 'adventure' on a video camera which acts as his friend over time, kind of
how the volley ball Wilson was Tom Hanks' buddy in 'Castaway'.
Worthy
Oscar nominee James Franco, is not only convincing , he is Aron. Not playing him
as a hero, but signifying human triumph of the highest order. Be warned, go easy
on the popcorn, the cutting scene is detailed and graphic in no uncertain terms.
Director Danny Boyle ('Trainspotting', 'Slumdog Millionaire')
keeps things potent, using triple split screens at times to show all aspects of
the wandering thoughts of Aron as desperation takes over. The uplifting conclusion
of this challenging film elevates it to unexpected emotional heights.
Shane
A. Bassett
