This movie reviewer just had the delight to be advanced a courtesy copy of Apocalypto for the purpose of review. Quite hesistantly I popped it into the dvd player. I say apprehensive for the sake of subtitles, possiblity of over-kill violence, and an all “native” cast. My thoughts were, “How can this be a Hollywood BlockBuster movie?”. By the way, box office gross for Apocalypto was $50 million in the United States. Well let me get to the point right away this movie is, without restraint, a well made roaring thriller! Quite happily the subtitling is done so well you can forget they are there. The violence in my oppinion is quite acceptable and befitting. And the “all native” cast is simply first-rate, drawing you in so deeply, you the viewer begin to feel you are as one with them.

Filmed in Veracruz, Mexico this movie starts off idyllically in the lush jungle of a small peaceful Mayan village. Mel Gibson initiates the story slowly, with dedicated pace which abruptly commences to the start of a violent , but necessary hunt scene. Mel uses a variety of tempos throughout the movie, generally simulating the unpredictability of life. Quickly after the hunt scene is typical foreshadowing of inevitable doom. A dreary beaten down tribe is witnessed retreating, bringing with them fear of the unknown oppression. There are many components of this film not found in most. For one, the jungle itself begins to feel as if it is part of the movie as much so as an important character. Another element central to the underlying outline is FEAR, fear of the unknown, fear of dying , fear of friends’ and family’s well-being, fear of earning or losing respect, and so on.

Mainly my concern were other reviewers finding this movie over the top with violence. Personally , I found every scene to be of value and done with reverence. The violence was utilized so well, that is why it appeared even more shocking. The core value of a movie in my oppinion is this; Do you care what happens to the central characters ? My answer in the case of this movie is ABSOLUTELY YES. You not only care about the central characters and their friends and family , you will understand the joy and pain of their enemies. Not only that , but you will be left with a lingering question as to the future of the jungle, i.e. home. My broad view of this movie is highly recommended, and
superbly crafted. Give this movie an A , you will be fully satisfied.