Synopsis: In a post-apocalyptic United States, a lone man (Denzel Washington) fights his way across the country in order to protect a sacred book that holds the secrets to saving humankind.Equal parts The Road Warrior, The Ten Commandments and The Postman, it's a pretty entertaining flick. I enjoyed the way Denzel beats the living hell out of people several times. The action scenes are all just terrific and really pick things up when it gets too talky. The short bursts of violence and blood are intense and very well done. I also like how the lines are clearly drawn as to good vs evil. Denzel's character is easy to root for and very likable and by the same token the gang of baddies, led by Gary Oldman, are easy to hate.
The movie looks great and very stylish with a dreary and "white washed" looking world. But as to not get too heavy or depressing, there are some little things about it to lighten the mood occasionally. Who knew Chap Stick was going to be such a commodity in the future?
Denzel is fantastic but Gary Oldman as his nemesis was just as good and both Jennifer Beals and Mila Kunis (That 70s Show) had some great moments. Mila actually has a very big role and I had my doubts she was the type of actress that would fit in here, but she was great and I'd expect to see more of her now after showing some range.
Overall it's a movie about religion, but much like the bible itself it's soaked in blood and violence. I must say that the whole religious thing came across to me as a bit goofy and absurd, but I find religion a bit goofy and absurd althogether so that's no surprise. It's a bit preachy perhaps and that took some off of my enjoyment, but looking at it just as an entertaining flick with some great action I can overlook it. There's also a great "twist" at the end that I didn't see coming, and I like it whenever I get fooled.
7.5/10
