Monster's Ball

Starring: Billy Bob Thornton, Halle Berry, Heath Ledger, Sean Combs
Directed by: Marc Forster
Rating: R
Genre: Drama
2001

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: When a man on death row (Sean Combs) is scheduled to be put to death, it strains the already rough relationship between a father (Billy Bob Thornton) and son (Heath Ledger), who both work as security guards at the prison. After a number of personal tragedies, the father meets and befriends the inmate's widow (Halle Berry), and the two draw strength from their unlikely romance.

Review:

Tim: The first thing I want to mention regarding this film is the role of Heath Ledger. I've been a big fan of his for years now, and I always try and catch the films he makes. In Monster's Ball, he has a small but complex and powerfully disturbing role. However, don't see this movie just for Ledger, because you will be disappointed. He's good, but the role isn't large enough to constitute watching the whole movie.

In addition to Ledger, Billy Bob Thornton and Halle Berry are very good together on screen. Make sure you pay attention to the scene on Berry's couch, when she's laughing, then crying, then laughing, then crying. It is really great work, and she deserved all the acclaim she received for her role. In addition, Thornton is excellent as well. You really hate him in the beginning, and slowly, as the film progresses, you like him more and more.

In addition to the acting, Monster's Ball tells a very interesting story. Many may not catch it at first, but the story is really about manhood, and our interpretations or misinterpretations of what it means to be a man. It makes for a very interesting storyline.

While Monster's Ball does have many good qualities, there are a number of problems I have with the film, mostly regarding plot details. I don't want to spoil too much of the film, but oftentimes the film feels flimsy and far-stretched. Pay special attention to the end of the film, because it's horrible. I couldn't believe the note the producers ended on, and it sums up the fact that this movie benefited from great performances, yet at times, the material they had to work with was fundamentally flawed. I'd recommend seeing Monster's Ball for the great performances, but besides being interesting, the story has far too many holes to be called great.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 6.5



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