The Revenant reminds us why the big screen is still wondrously important. This is an astonishing, beautiful, harrowing and thrilling film that leaves the viewer drained - and that is just within the first few minutes. As the poetic opening gives way to a ferociously brutal attack, this is Malick meets Tarantino, and there is more creative and exciting direction and cinematography in that sequence alone than most movies manage in their entirety. The Revenant is also a classic example of a simple tale told powerfully, amounting narratively to little more than the revenge tale outlined in the trailer, with nods to previous epics like Gladiator (familial dream sequences) and Apocalypse Now, all of which involve a personal journey that takes on greater significance. DiCaprio is utterly compelling throughout, and there are terrific supporting performances from Gleeson, Poulter and especially Tom Hardy. This wintry, raw survival tale is wonderfully realised on the screen in every aspect, highlighting the fragility of man against the power of nature from tiny moments such as the delight in catching snowflakes on tongues to Glass being swept away helplessly in a raging torrent. A challenge to make and at times challenging to watch, The Revenant is a superb and rewarding filmic achievement.
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