Road to Perdition
August 2, 2002

     A movie based on a novel by Mark A. Collins, portrays the life of Michael Sullivan.  I, admittedly, never even seen the novel, so I can’t really judge how true it stayed to the book, so this review will be from the eyes of a  person whom did not know a thing about it.

     Michael Sullivan Jr. (Tyler Hoechlin) never knew what his father did for a living, until he stows away in his father’s car.  Taken place in 1932, during the Great Depression, Michael Sullivan (Tom Hanks) works as a hit man for John Rooney (Paul Newman), but when his work interferes with his personal life, causing the death of his wife and youngest son.  He and Michael set off on a journey of revenge.

     Road to Perdition is a deep and thought-provoking movie, long after you’ve seen it, the thoughts and feelings of it are still implanted in your mind.  Taking you into a somewhat surreal world, where you see from the eyes of one of the bad guys, in a way.  The story can be somewhat linear and predictable, but after every corner there is a surprise, for better or for worse.  You’ll be surprised at some of the emotions you’ll feel throughout the movie.  A comforting warmth behind the stony exterior of the movie and a hint of sadness depicted, leaves audiences reminiscing and pondering over events.  There’s a thin screen covering the entire movie, not really explaining to you why these things are happening, leaving viewers partially left in the darkness, to think for themselves.

     With an air of mystery and darkness encircling Road to Perdition, the visuals seem to meld with the movies emotions, creating a stunning ambiance.  From the torrential downpour of winter’s rain, to the peacefulness of the countryside, everything seemed in place, without a whiff of awkwardness.  The cinematography by Conrad L. Hall was quite well done, I could mention a few memorable scenes, but it would be difficult to visualize for those who have not seen it.

       If you don’t mind a bit of violence, course language and bloodshed, and are seeking for an amazing story, Road to Perdition, with its visuals, beautiful storyline, and mysterious ambience, will quench any movie-goers thirst for a masterpiece. 

 - Bobo

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