“What’s the most you’ve ever lost on a coin toss?” Who knew this simple question could ensue fear and dread when asked? Javier Bardem, giving one of the best performances of 2007, determines whether you live or die based on the “heads or tails” flip in the new film No Country For Old Men.
No Country is The Coen Brothers’ latest film, adapted from Cormac McCarthys’ novel. It’s very rare to view a movie adapted by a book that is up to par with its literary predecessor. However, No Country does not disappoint. The same suspense that causes you to keep flipping pages, is the same suspense that keeps you on the edge of your seat and clenching your teeth.
While hunting, Llewelyn Moss (Josh Brolin), stumbles upon what appears to be a drug deal turned sour. With no interest in Mexican heroin, he makes off with a case containing the money exchange for the dope. With his conscience getting the better of him, Moss makes an unfortunate mistake causing himself to be identified as the possessor of the missing loot and is forced to run. Incidentally involved in this “jackpot” are Moss’ wife Carla Jean (Kelly McDonald), slick whited Sherrif Ed Tom Bell (Tommy Lee Jones), and hit man for hire Carson Wells (Woody Harrelson). Rounding out this cast is Antone Chigurh (Bardem). What started out as the discovery of a lifetime quickly spirals downward into a discovery that could just cost the lives of everyone involved, and some unlucky bystanders to boot.
Though 2007 has provided us with it’s fair share of let-downs, No Country is one of the few films of 2007 that you do not want to miss. The Coens deliver their best work since Fargo as a full-force, unflinching, non-apologizing masterpiece. It’s a beautiful film and deserves recognition.
9.0 out of 10.
* See my buddy James’ review here: http://moveitmove.wordpress.com/
