Film review: The Book of Eli
Directed by the Hughes Brothers – 2010
With: Denzel Washington and Gary Oldman
(15)
The simple fact that The Book of Eli stars Denzel Washington means you want to like the movie. The charming, noble and unquestionably talented actor is a symbol of pride to black people the world over and his success and achievements (he is the owner of two Academy Awards and countless other accolades) in the American film industry is a true testament to the phrase: ‘if you believe it, you can achieve it’.
In The book of Eli, set in a post-apocalyptic time, Denzel plays Eli, a lone warrior who walks the lawless roads of America after the world has been devastated by a global war. In his possession is a book so precious that Eli is willing to kill anything and anyone who tries to take it. His mission is to journey west until he finds the people who will cherish the book just as much as he does. But Eli is not the only one who believes in the book’s power: Carnegie (played by Oldman) – the self appointed despot of makeshift town of thieves and gunmen – wants the book for himself. However Carnegie desires it for evil and will use it to enslave the illiterate masses and give himself ultimate power.
Despite the presence of Washington the film does have a few holes and the plot left me with some unanswered questions. The book in question is in fact the only surviving copy of a King James Bible and being a lover of The Word myself, I could identify with the way it was portrayed. The film highlights that the Bible can be used as both a beacon of hope but also an instrument of oppression and as much as I find solace in what it says about life, man and God, I’m also aware of how it has been used previously misused to subjugate and enslave.
Thus the conflict between Eli and Carnegie and their appreciation of the book was what I found most enjoyable. This antagonism, combined with the films many, and at times comical action scenes made a good basis for the film. However this seemed to be the only real plot in a movie that is nearly two hours long. Also the film’s conclusion and the discovery of what Eli really is (no spoiler) was just a stretch too far beyond my imagination and proved to be a bit of a letdown.
Denzel Washington gives his expected, impeccable performance. It’s worth noting that the actor has an invested interest in the film (he is one of the producers) and is a devout follower of the Christian holy book. As a film, The Book of Eli didn’t blow me away; it was rather its themes and opportunity for debate/contemplations that made a lasting impact.
The book of Eli, out now. Find screenings near you on LondonNet
