Not since "Leaving Las Vegas" has a film captured the theme of "through sorrow and loss comes unexpected love and compassion" like "Monster's Ball" does. Halle Berry is so amazing that when she sinks into her character's world, you have no choice but to follow along. She puts herself on the line both physically and emotionally and she deserves a date with Oscar because of it. Marc Forster's direction is expertly tuned, compounded with a sound script and stellar cinematography. Billy Bob Thornton is as good as he always is, but watch for a haunting performance from Heath Ledger and a powerful, anti-type spin from Peter Boyle. The power of this film is in its ability to shock the audience into a sudden state of disbelief moment after moment after moment, and when the pain rises to the surface, we feel it truthfully and unflinchingly. The only major misstep is the miscasting of Sean Combs as Berry's husband, and newcomer Coronji Calhoun's novice is evident, though ultimately forgivable. Overall, Lions Gate should be knighted for its decision to release a bold, daring motion picture that shines in this year of hyper-glossed, over-hyped, under-performing Hollywood fare. Audiences MUST take notice. I dare the Academy to do the right thing and honor Halle Berry in March.
Review of Monster's Ball
