A History of Violence

Starring: Viggo Mortensen, Maria Bello, Ed Harris, William Hurt
Directed by: David Cronenberg
Rating: R
Genre: Action, Drama, Crime
2005

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: A small-town diner owner (Viggo Mortensen) kills two robbers trying to steal money from his restaurant. He becomes a local hero, but also attracts the attention of a mysterious man (Ed Harris) who is convinced the diner owner is a murderer he knew years ago.

Review:

Tim: I was a little surprised that this movie was so well received by critics. Sure, it is a solid little movie, but it's not that exciting, not that action packed, and really not that interesting. There is really not anything wrong with this movie, but it leaves you desperately wishing there was more. This is the film's biggest weakness- not very much happens at all. I'm not saying I wish this was a stupid action film (the drama in this movie is outstanding), but you need a little something more.

Viggo Mortensen may never win an Academy Award, but he proves here that his abilities are not limited to The Lord of the Rings. He makes a good hero under any circumstances. Maria Bello is surprisingly good. It is always a toss up, whether I enjoy her or not, but she gives a solid performance here. Ed Harris adds in a menacing supporting performance, and although he's a little over-the-top, he lends even more support to the fact that he needs to win an Oscar. William Hurt is fairly strong as well in a role that I was a little surprised to see him take, but on further thought, it it exactly the type of role he's great in.

Besides the cast, the film has a fairly strong story. This is a very straightforward movie. You can actually see the linear progression as the movie moves forward. There are a few really strong scenes (that all happen to involve conflict)- Mortensen's heroics at the diner, the Mortensen family clashing with Harris, the Mortensen-Bello stairs confrontation, and the climactic battle. These scenes firmly stand out in our mind.

A History of Violence is a bit overrated. It is a strong movie, but yet, not one of the best films of the year.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 7.5



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: The Lord of the Rings Trilogy, Hidalgo, A Beautiful Mind