From the title of this film, I always assumed it was a multi-generational mobster flick in which Viggo is the focal point. But that's not the story line at all. The actual plot is more subtle and interesting: a man trying to shed his former life (of violence) and start anew.
My familiarity with David Cronenberg is from Dead Ringes, The Fly and Scanners, so this feels like a complete departure. Good for him; stretch those creative muscles!.
I like how Viggo's character has to sort of "climb the ladder" of dealing with ever-more dangerous men to win his freedom. And, that William Hurt sits atop that pyramid, haha! Even as a bad guy, the late William Hurt makes me smile.
I have to knock off a point for the Hollywood cliche of a man shot in the shoulder, who somehow carries on with little more than a wince of pain. But, I'll restore a point for the gnarly fight scenes.
Some of the sex scenes (and Maria Bello's acting in general) are a bit over the top. And, the final scene at the dinner table left a bit to be desired, IMHO: she looks at him, he looks at her, she looks more intensely at him, he looks even more intensely at her. Cut to black.
Still, this movie is worth a watch.
***RECOMMENDED***
My familiarity with David Cronenberg is from Dead Ringes, The Fly and Scanners, so this feels like a complete departure. Good for him; stretch those creative muscles!.
I like how Viggo's character has to sort of "climb the ladder" of dealing with ever-more dangerous men to win his freedom. And, that William Hurt sits atop that pyramid, haha! Even as a bad guy, the late William Hurt makes me smile.
I have to knock off a point for the Hollywood cliche of a man shot in the shoulder, who somehow carries on with little more than a wince of pain. But, I'll restore a point for the gnarly fight scenes.
Some of the sex scenes (and Maria Bello's acting in general) are a bit over the top. And, the final scene at the dinner table left a bit to be desired, IMHO: she looks at him, he looks at her, she looks more intensely at him, he looks even more intensely at her. Cut to black.
Still, this movie is worth a watch.
***RECOMMENDED***