A film review by Sam Floeter Copyright © 2000 Sam Floeter

This review of "The Beach" is in contrast to the review posted by Jeffery Sanders, so you should probably read his before proceeding. "The Beach" is the fourth directorial installment from Danny Boyle, acclaimed director of Trainspotting, Shallow Grave, and A Life Less Ordinary. Boyle's brilliant visceral style has been emulated by several British directors including Guy Ritchie (Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels...one of my favorite movies of all time I might add) and despite what Mr. Sanders says, I believe that Boyle's "trademark visual flair" is very much present in "The Beach". A prime example would be the video game sequence during Richards descent into temporary insanity. The way Boyle managed to work the scene into the movie, in such a clever way, is a testimonial to his great sense of visual diversity.

I agree with Mr. Sanders on the issue of poor character development. Indeed, they could have been fleshed out better, however, the movie begins with Richard (DiCaprio) as a mystery. His first words are "My name is Richard. What else do you need to know?" In fact, Richard is perhaps the only character in the movie that we do not learn much about. The main characters motivations are unclear through most of the movie, yet we learn so much more about the people around him. It is in this aspect that "The Beach" differs from the typical "inner-journey" flicks.

I disagree with Mr. Sanders conclusion that the third act of the movie was "complete horseshit". In my opinion, this is far from the truth. I'll admit that it bordered on the anti-climactic, but it was a satisfactory conclusion to the events that unfolded, and yet it was not the most predictable ending. Certainly, it was not worthy of being merited in association with the abominable "Wing Commander".

Dicaprio gave a solid performance with the scraps he was given, not necessarily a memorable one, but solid nonetheless. Also, the excellent use of the camera with tropical scenery and wide panoramic shots made the movie that much more pleasing. In the end, I was surprised with the film, and found it entertaining to say the least. Although I wouldn't put the film on my Years Best List, I would reccommend it as a decent film...and actually, in my opinion, it is Danny Boyle's visual style that made the film so enjoyable.

	Running Time: 118 Min | Rated: R | US Release: February 11th | More >>

Related Links:

• Official Site
• Footsteps on the Beach
• Star Seeker Movies: Beach
• Salon: Alex Garland Interview
• Upcomingmovies.com: The Beach

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