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4 Stars

One of the most intensely gripping and moving films of all time. A virtuoso one man performance by James Franco is matched by a masterful directorial effort from Danny Boyle. Focusing on the unbelievable true story of Aron Ralston’s five day struggle to free himself from a rock that had entrapped his arm, thereby stranding him in a crevasse.

Franco does an excellent job here, hinting at the supreme confidence and arrogance of a loaner that wanted to ‘disappear’ from civilization. Equally haunting and heartfelt; the acting on display in the picture serves as a reminder that no 3D spectacle can match the sight of a great actor devouring a once in a lifetime role. This kid’s the real deal, if OSCAR doesn’t shine on him this year, I guarantee that it will in the future.

At times the film meanders a bit too much into the surreal in suggesting the levels of hallucination and dehydration Ralston is battling. A little bit of that goes a long way. However Boyle’s nearly flawless script and claustrophobic cinematography by Enrique Chediak and Anthony Dod Mantle. are amongst the films biggest assets. An unusually aggressive sound design is put to superb use, effectively creating a hostile environment and the sudden shock of storms or broken bones.

Not a film recommended for repeat viewings, but a trip that is worth taking. In an age when most movies are forgotten by the time you’ve exited the theater. This film will haunt you.

Director: Danny Boyle
Stars: James Franco, Treat Williams, Amber Tamblyn