In this epic western set against the backdrop of the American Civil War, there is a visceral study of revenge and a bloody account of the aftermath of war in 1868. Combining the raw brutality of the western plains and the beauty of the western mountains, the thrilling final stage is set for Conferate Colonel Morsman Carvers' (Liam Neesom) terrible revenge — to hunt down and kill Union (U.S.) Captain Gideon (Pierce Brosnan) — no matter what it takes.
This manhunt takes place in the snowy mountains of the west with a relentless pursuit that takes them both from the comforts and codes of civilization and into the wilderness. The level of authenticity in this film by these two excellent main characters is so real you actually feel the tension without a great deal of dialogue. The location shooting is reminiscence of the John Ford and John Huston westerns of yesteryear.
With a small part played by Anjelica Huston as Madame Louise, the film gives off a feeling of greatness. As many men die before these two men meet face to face, the blood trail goes on and on - perhaps a good ten minutes could have been edited out of this film.
The emotional conclusion to this odyssey comes after a bloody climax in which both men are forced to confront their past and travel deep within the recesses of their souls. These two masters of the art of acting (Neeson & Brosnan) were perfectly cast for their roles, and they are truly convincing.
Seraphim Falls is a taut action film, an epic chase, and primal battle set in the mythic landscape of the West. It is good to see a well-crafted adult western again.
Directed by: David Von Ancken
Run time: 1 hr. 55 mins.
Release date: January 26, 2007
Genre: Western, Action, Drama
Distributor: Samuel Goldwyn Films
MPAA Rating: R
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