FILM REVIEW: HEART OF THE BEAST (12A) ESP RATING: 3.5/5
Brad Pitt adds a satisfying bite to his illustrious movie CV – with this solid canine-orienated survival drama.
He stars as retired Special Forces Command Sergeant James Belmont, who is living a life of solitude in the Alaskan wilderness, with this trusty combat dog Odin by his side.
But when Belmont’s small seaplane harrowingly crashlands in a lake far from civilisation – after he suffers a heart attack mid-flight – the duo must navigate a gruelling 58 mile trek to safety, with his German Shepherd companion already traumatised from his war zone experiences.
Here they must overcome the harsh elements and treacherous terrain to at least make it to the nearest road. But throw in injuries, and the worryingly significant obstacles in the form of grizzly bears and stalking wolves – particularly when the darkness of night sets in – it soons becomes clear that Belmont and Odin must show their true bond as they fight for survival.
Here Oscar-winner Pitt re-teams with Fury director David Ayer (Suicide Squad) in a movie that is virtually a one-man-and-his-dog tale (excuse the pun) from start to finish – minus two brief cameos (one from fellow Oscar-winner JK Simmon of Whiplash fame) – and provides a likeable adventure that highlights their fellowship against all odds.
It starts off a bit slow – and has a couple of cheesily brief moments – but it actually picks up the pace towards the end – with the duo’s stand-off with a pack of wolves being a heart-pounding highlight.
Even if you’re not a dog lover it’s perfectly noteworthy for anyone wanting a quickfire thriller that doesn’t outstay its welcome – with some rewardingly intense action sequences.
But if you are, you can undoubtedly add on an extra half mark – and bring your tissues too – as you’ll probably get more out of this due to potential affinity with the source material.
This definitely deserves a commendable round of A-paws.
ESP Rating: 3.5/5
Gavin Miller
Showcase Cinema De Lux Peterborough & Odeon Luxe Peterborough, Out Now
Cast: Brad Pitt, Jk Simmons & Anna Lambe
Running Time: 1 Hr 41 Mins
Director: David Ayer
Film Review Venue: Showcase Cinema De Lux Peterborough
For all the latest film information & showtimes at Peterborough’s Showcase Cinema De Lux & Odeon Luxe cinemas go to www.showcasecinemas.co.uk and www.odeon.co.uk
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