Revenant is an uncommon word. It describes “one who returns after a long absence.” In the movie “The Revenant,” “Resurrection” would have been a just as good a title for this adaptation of Hugh Glass’s documented struggle for survival in 1823.
Glass (Leonardo DiCaprio) is part of a fur trapping expedition. He is seriously mauled by a bear in a horribly realistic attack. In a Judas-like role, companion John (Tom Hardy) concludes that Glass is fatally injured and would only slow the expedition. He places Glass in a half dug grave then leaves.
Sheer determination drives Glass to survive a series of threats and obstacles not only by hostile Indians, but by nature itself. While self-preservation is his initial impetus, when Glass discovers his son by a native Indian has been killed, his motive changes to revenge.
Director Inarritu uses his trademark of lengthy, one-shot action scenes that are spectacular. The problem is that his film is totally on the dark side. You will see sunshine only in a brief minute or two in the entire 2 hours and 36 minute run.
DiCaprio gives an Oscar-level performance. If he does not win, at least give his makeup artist a statue. Cinematography also gets top marks. Only the totality of darkness drags this show down to a B.
“The Revenant” is currently showing at The Rialto in The Villages.
Jack Petro reviews movies for Villages-News.com.