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Edge of Darkness (2010)
Directed by Martin Campbell
Starring: Mel Gibson, Ray Winstone, Danny Huston, Bojana Novakovic
Martin Campbell is a director who knows action films. He’s been at the helm of a number of action-packed movies including Casino Royale and Vertical Limit. This time he took on Edge of Darkness, a film adapted from the 1985 BBC series of the same name which he had also directed. The film stars action-film veteran Mel Gibson alongside Ray Winstone, Danny Huston, and Bojana Novakovic.
When Thomas Craven’s (Gibson) daughter Emma (Novakovic) is killed he uncovers a deeper side to the life she was living. As he digs into her work and her friends he finds a secret that puts his life in danger. The secret puts him up against a powerful corporation as well as the government who are both anxious to hide the truth about their dealings. Soon Craven finds himself up against dangerously powerful people as he seeks to avenge his daughter’s death.
Mel Gibson is a really good actor. Over the years he’s given us some memorable roles including Braveheart and We Were Soldiers. This movie might not be one of those award-winning performances but it’s still a great role for him. This film was well cast and Winstone and Huston are good throughout the film. Winstone might be better known for his work in the powerful film The Departed. Huston has had parts in a number of popular movies including The Aviator and The Kingdom.
The film itself is well-made and exciting from beginning to end. It keeps the right pace for a suspense film and is visually intense as well. Director Martin Campbell does a great job with the visuals and his experience shines throughout the movie.
Critics enjoyed this movie which succeeded at the box office despite being up against movies like Avatar. Michael Rechtshaffen, a top critic for The Hollywood Reporter, wrote in his review that “An intense Mel Gibson performance anchors this brutally effective crime thriller”.
The movie does has some weaknesses. The dream sequences throughout the film seem to take away from the story at the heart of the film. There is also a lack of focus at times in regards to the core of the plot.
Despite the weaknesses, this is a good movie with a great story behind it. I would recommend this one for anyone who enjoys political thrillers or revenge movies. This might also appeal to fans of Mel Gibson since it’s a good performance by him. I give this movie 4 out of 5 stars.
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