Yes, I agree, it is not possible to discuss "Perdition" without praising Conrad Hall's cinematography. But, no, this is not a "cautionary tale about self-destruction," nor is it "richly rewarding." It is richly exploitative--yet another young (and, coincidentally, foreign) filmmaker's futile attempt to come to grips with the endemic nature of American violence. But this visually stunning movie stuns more with its cynical pretentions, leaving the viewer feeling used and resentful. After countless bodies are sprayed and bloodied--including that of his mother, brother and father-- a totally unaffected 12-year-old witness and participant blithely scampers off with his dog to the elegiac haven of a proto-Ma and Pa Kent like some impervious young superhero.
In attempting to explain or expose the roots of stereotypically violent American machissmo, director Mendes merely extends a trend he purports to abhor.
His movie is "Paper Moon" meets "Bonnie & Clyde" meets "The Professional"--and when this expensive, much-anticipated new suit of emperor's clothing is unveiled, nothing of value, honesty or insight is visible.
In attempting to explain or expose the roots of stereotypically violent American machissmo, director Mendes merely extends a trend he purports to abhor.
His movie is "Paper Moon" meets "Bonnie & Clyde" meets "The Professional"--and when this expensive, much-anticipated new suit of emperor's clothing is unveiled, nothing of value, honesty or insight is visible.