Monday 4 February 2013

Life of Pi


Life of Pi took me by surprise, which is hard to do in this day and age!
I'd seen one or two trailers (to their credit, the marketing team didn't give too much away). I had avoided reading any reviews or articles on the production. I was also aware of the critical acclaim the film had already garnered. I was encouraged to see it in 3D - and I encourage you to do the same. Life of Pi is one of those rare films that lives up to the hype! 

The book from which it's based was written by Yann Martel. I used to work at a book shop and remember the cover vividly - the popularity of the book was evidently clear. I'm not a big reader, but if I knew then what I know now, I would've picked up a copy!

Life of Pi is a marvel. The story asks us to believe in miracles and magic again. The film asks the same of the audience, by presenting a visceral feast for the eyes - undeniable imagery which has to be seen to be believed. This is art imitating art in what was generally regarded an unfilmable adaptation.

The film begins with Pi as a young boy - a zoo-keepers son living with his family in Pondicherry, India. During Pi's mid-teens, his family decide to up sticks and move to Canada (animals and all). Their ship is sunk on route by a violent storm. Pi is the only human survivor amongst a handful of exotic animals - including the ferocious Bengal tiger, Richard Parker.
Cast adrift in the Pacific Ocean, Pi and his companions do what they must to stay alive!

The animals in Life of Pi behave as real as one would expect. More so in fact - to the point where it's educational! Life of Pi is distinctive in this sense - this certainly isn't The Jungle Book!
As much as I enjoy learning about the production of movies, particularly effects-driven ones, I feel the point will be missed with Life of Pi. Real life animals were almost certainly involved - and you can bet your bottom dollar that a good portion of the film was digitally animated. But where and how is what makes this film so masterful. Moreover, this is the standard that every movie should aspire to - the ability to thrill and captivate an audience through a visual medium, without jettisoning an engaging story.

Life of Pi is directed by Ang Lee - a director who can seemingly turn his hand to any genre. From Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon to Hulk (love it) and Brokeback Mountain, it would seem there's no story Lee can't tell. Lee's movies are always visually breathtaking - a rich and engaging story is always at the forefront however.

Every now and again, one is rewarded with a film that engages the brain as much as the eyes. The technical elements of this film are faultless (I don't say this lightly). The story and particularly the over-all sentiment will give all those with a pulse a feeling of warmth and reassurance.

Prepare to be whisked away on a truly incredible voyage. Don't forget your 3D specs!

5/5


Poster image courtesy: www.impawards.com