Sam Mendes follows up "American Beauty" with one of the most stylish meditations on violence to ever hit the screen. Tom Hanks, Paul Newman, Jude Law and a kid no one knew, Tyler Hoechlin, make up the formidable acting talent. Conrad Hall creates some of the most compelling cinematography in recent memory. And Thomas Newman turns in another lush and lively score. This is so much more than a gangster shoot 'em up. In the style of "Godfather", it is a slowly paced but methodical study of family systems caught in cycles of violence. It's "Bonnie and Clyde" era setting makes for a few humorous scenes, but there's a rare (dare I say heartwarming) quality to the father-son story and a maintained sense of tension throughout the piece that sets the movie on its own course. Plotwise, there are few surprises; but there is still a satisfaction derived from watching this plot unfold. It is as rich as the stories of "Bible history" that are appreciated by the eldest son. Don't go expecting to see next year's Oscar winner. Go just because you love the movies.
Review of Road to Perdition
