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Thursday, March 27, 2014

Noah - B

Russell Crowe as Noah
Rated PG-13, 132 minutes

"Noah" is intriguing, entertaining interpretation

The epic new film "Noah" from acclaimed director Darren Aronofsky ("Black Swan") isn't a faithful, literal interpretation of the Biblical story of Noah's ark, but what a sublime, creative interpretation it is, bound to cause plenty of controversy amongst the Evangelical Christian set. Vastly entertaining, highly watchable though flawed and uneven in places, most of it works remarkably well. In a world ravaged by human sin, Noah (Russell Crowe) and his family (Jennifer Connelly, Logan Lerman and others) and  is given a divine mission: to build an Ark to save creation from the coming flood. Directed and co-written by Aronofsky, the visually enticing, affecting and well-acted "Noah" may be a divisive film with some, but the basic themes of sin, the fall of man and God's mercy ring true. Of course, some (Biblical scholars) may not appreciate some of the liberties that Aronofsky takes with the story, altering some details of the story, not to mention some egregious interpretations (namely with that of the crusty angelic beings The Watchers, which gives it a "Lord of the Rings" feel yet is one of the few things that doesn't work). Still, Crowe is perfectly cast as Noah, and the sublime visuals add some entertainment value, particularly with all the animals, the built-to-scale Ark and the tense, impressive flood scene, which seems much more expansive and epic here than in previous versions. "Noah" isn't perfect; much of Aronofsky's creativity pays off and the expensive film works much better than you might think, though it's a little muddled in its initial chapters and some may be disappointed that the flood, which takes center stage in the trailers, doesn't come until mid-film. "Noah" takes better shape later on, and the themes of mercy, family and forgiveness are relevant. Whether or not you're a believer, you will appreciate this intriguing, highly entertaining version of "Noah," just see it for yourself before you criticize it.

Wes's Grade: B

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