Apocalypto

10

MarilenManipulaMay 22, 2007

hey, i hate those who gave 0 ranking for mel gibson's apocalypto, so i give it 10, it's really a good movie, if there's violence which most consider negative, why won't they open their eyes? stop pretending to be sohey, i hate those who gave 0 ranking for mel gibson's apocalypto, so i give it 10, it's really a good movie, if there's violence which most consider negative, why won't they open their eyes? stop pretending to be so inncocent! when i've watched this movie it's really good, you can really feel the intense.. i give it a perfect score ^^-… Expand

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9

TroyMossmanApr 14, 2007

You know what guys? Quit ******** about how inaccurate the movie portrays the Mayans. We are no longer living in those times and they are impossible to completely re-create. Not to mention this movie was never meant to be a scientific studyYou know what guys? Quit ******** about how inaccurate the movie portrays the Mayans. We are no longer living in those times and they are impossible to completely re-create. Not to mention this movie was never meant to be a scientific study of Mayan life. Go watch a DIscovery special if that's what you're looking for. As it stands, Apocalyto is a great, fast paced action film. The story is interesting if not "historically accurate", and the filming is done very well. See it for what it is. Not because you want some boring British lecturer to take you through the life of the Mayan's or some crap like that.… Expand

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9

PatE.Apr 8, 2007

Undountedly, the people who no nothing of America's Indians can't help but rate this movie low, for the mind too small to comprehend anything past the violence, I say this movie isn't for you! Go watch an Arnold flick! ItUndountedly, the people who no nothing of America's Indians can't help but rate this movie low, for the mind too small to comprehend anything past the violence, I say this movie isn't for you! Go watch an Arnold flick! It wasn't meant to brilliantly potray the mayan's culture. It also wasn't meant to give you a history lesson either. It was meant for you to understand the nature of a people. The Mayans had spiritual beliefs, they had societies built by slaves. Yes, this slaves were their own people, stop bashing mel gibson just because this movie isn't for the simple minded. Sure, Mel isn't perfect, and sure he's a bit crazy. Alot of brilliant people have been on the brink of insanity. Stop taking away from a brilliant movie. Brilliant because it still captivates somewhat of a meaningful end. This isn't for you Jackass 2 movie lovers, so go back to your MTV rubbish and save the space for meaningful comment!… Expand

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9

BrutusO.Mar 11, 2007

A bit of a surprise, and a considerably better film than Braveheart. Above all Apocalypto is a gripping action film, admittedly violent, but well paced and brilliantly shot, with astounding costume design and casting. It is also occasionally A bit of a surprise, and a considerably better film than Braveheart. Above all Apocalypto is a gripping action film, admittedly violent, but well paced and brilliantly shot, with astounding costume design and casting. It is also occasionally humourous, often touching, sometimes romantic and quite a bit more thoughtful than it first appears. The film is not a documentary about Mayan history. It is a parable about the nature of apocalyptic social collapse (hence the title, guys - it isn't called Mayo) and the centrality and importance of family and primary relationships when society crumbles. So it could have been set in any country where society and the environment are in terminal decline. The lesson is that mindless violence and overpopulation and ethnic cleansing and a war economy and religious hysteria will all come to the fore when the elites within any society lose touch with their basic humanitarian and conservationist impulses. So this movie could just as easily have been set at the fall of Ancient Egypt, or Rome, or even in contemporary Iraq, Sudan or Zimbabwe. But despite being like, "a bit heavy and depressing" the film in fact has the directorial chops to be pretty damn entertaining. I suppose linking one's family values to the environment represents something of a conservative viewpoint, but after all conservation and conservative do stem from the same word. Mel's best film.… Expand

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10

RadiospotsR.Feb 18, 2007

Absolutely a superb work of art. I have been working long hours that last several months, and almost every movie I have dozed off on, but not this. This movie had me from the begining to the very end. Went very fast, absoutely amazing and Absolutely a superb work of art. I have been working long hours that last several months, and almost every movie I have dozed off on, but not this. This movie had me from the begining to the very end. Went very fast, absoutely amazing and proving Mel is definitely a very gifted artist.… Expand

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0

AndresA.Feb 13, 2007

How many people are going to actually watch this movie and say: "okay, let's excuse the historic inaccuracies, since this is is just a fiction film" ? The same way people derived a strong anti-semitic message from "the Passion of the How many people are going to actually watch this movie and say: "okay, let's excuse the historic inaccuracies, since this is is just a fiction film" ? The same way people derived a strong anti-semitic message from "the Passion of the Christ", they will believe Gibson's message that this is actually what the Maya culture used to look like a thousand years ago. Sad indeed.… Expand

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0

LuciaV.Feb 12, 2007

This was a terrible movie if you are looking for reliable information regarding the Mayan people and their advanced civilization. If you know that and are looking for a believable action film, it is an awful movie with all its implausible This was a terrible movie if you are looking for reliable information regarding the Mayan people and their advanced civilization. If you know that and are looking for a believable action film, it is an awful movie with all its implausible thrill scenes. Neither the hunters or the hunted behaved as knowledgeable forest dwellers. It made the characters look stupid at best. Those who liked this movie must be as stupid as the director (who could not create a single credible scene) as they wax excitedly over big screen stupidity. I just hope no one uses this film to try to better know our southern neighbors. This film continues in the genre of demeaning, stereotypical racist caricatures of Mexicans or their ancestors.… Expand

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1

AndreaV.Feb 9, 2007

So much violence is just pornographic. There's nothing left after you watch it, just angst. The only positive aspect is the actor Rudy Youngblood (despite the fact he is not even Mayan) who trasmits feelings to the audience in a great way.

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10

LlaveO.Feb 5, 2007

The film may be subject to negative comments for historical inaccuracies and brutal violences, but as a fiction, without a doubt, it is a masterpiece especially the performances of actors-- collectively, they performed with tribal perfection!

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4

FrankL.Feb 3, 2007

It is about time that history be treated with respect. This film is one dimensional in its overbearing dependence on violence. It is hard to love nature if we look through Gibson's eyes. He is on a mission of conversion and uses all the It is about time that history be treated with respect. This film is one dimensional in its overbearing dependence on violence. It is hard to love nature if we look through Gibson's eyes. He is on a mission of conversion and uses all the tools available to him to convince all of us that his history and observations are true. He has failed to make a balanced and poetic vision of the Maya culture.… Expand

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10

ChaiM.Feb 2, 2007

The movie was superbly created. With tons of metaphors and thoughts about courage, I, as an avid movie buff will certainly crave for this movie every once in a while...way to go!

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1

LARADOEJan 30, 2007

Having recently been in Mexico I decided to see this film. If it did not have some pretentions to being some comment on life as we know it either now, or in the time of (as Gibson would have it) "some" of our ancestors it might just beHaving recently been in Mexico I decided to see this film. If it did not have some pretentions to being some comment on life as we know it either now, or in the time of (as Gibson would have it) "some" of our ancestors it might just be mindlesslyand in some ways unprecendently cruel and crude however because it opens with a comment about how societies collapse it sets itself up as having meaning. It does not have any meaning beyond evoking profounding visceral responses that knock any possible thinking through out from after the first ten minutes. To call it flawed honours it , to me it is a brutal travesty that apparently enobles the hegemony that ruled thereafter.It is more disturbing to think about it because then you realise there is no comprehensible message. Only good for dieters - eating is not to be recommended either before, and out of the question afterwards.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

0

MauriceV.Jan 29, 2007

Just a morron would think that the most intelectual and respectful of the prehispanic cultures is as savage as they were depicted... Yup... Mel Gibson is that stupid. But that's what you get when you mix a crappy director who caresJust a morron would think that the most intelectual and respectful of the prehispanic cultures is as savage as they were depicted... Yup... Mel Gibson is that stupid. But that's what you get when you mix a crappy director who cares nothing about historical facts, and the comercial vibe to create another worthless action unwitful spoil just to fill the producers hands with money from the usual morbid mob who love the baths of blood and gore for no special reason nor plot....
Now Mayans and spanish men... well grabing a history book won't hurt anyone, then we can all know that the periods of time don't fit actually...that, and the already mentioned farfetched scenes shown all along this suplex of a film.. But ... hey... it is another fact that Gibson's brain is sort of death... so it was something really predictable. It's not worth watching at all.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

10

NickX.Jan 27, 2007

I wish I could rate it with 11/10. The film is amazing for every fan of the Mayans..and not!

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10

hugosanJan 26, 2007

I really cant understand why some ppl qualify this movie with 2's and 3's, its true the movie got gruesome scenes, but if you have a little brain you would realize that thats how reallity its really all about, ppl do loose arms andI really cant understand why some ppl qualify this movie with 2's and 3's, its true the movie got gruesome scenes, but if you have a little brain you would realize that thats how reallity its really all about, ppl do loose arms and legs and during prehispanic mayan and aztec cultures human sacrifices happened, sure its not historically acurrate but thats why its a movie and not a documentary. It transport you in a trip in the anciend Mesoamerica and offers the viewer a glimpse of what life whas all about during those times. Im very pleased as a Mexican with the portrait it delivers cose it neither glorify neither condmemn the society of those days. Its simply feels real.… Expand

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10

FreddsyD.Jan 26, 2007

Action masterpiece!

0 of 0 users found this helpful

2

GabrielaI.Jan 25, 2007

Totally unrespectful of magnificent Mayan civilization. Gibson obviously has no idea about this people.

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9

S.B.Jan 25, 2007

The raw energy and passion of the film is very primal, but it makes you feel alive and very human. It is not a film for audiences whom hang their lives on intellectual hooks. This said, I found the central messages strong and powerful and The raw energy and passion of the film is very primal, but it makes you feel alive and very human. It is not a film for audiences whom hang their lives on intellectual hooks. This said, I found the central messages strong and powerful and above all very honest. The violence and brutality served it purpose in revealing the central themes. Fear in life is the killer of all human evolution, the individual who can stare it in the face and not sucumb will be at one with nature, and the spirit of the world or the "jungle" will become there ally.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

6

K.L.Jan 21, 2007

Nice scenery and some genuine fearful moments when the captives are offered for sacrifice and the scrambled to reach the corn field to freedom. Not entirely sure why some lots of people rated the film with 9 and 10s, it wasn't THAT Nice scenery and some genuine fearful moments when the captives are offered for sacrifice and the scrambled to reach the corn field to freedom. Not entirely sure why some lots of people rated the film with 9 and 10s, it wasn't THAT good. [***SPOILER***]Have you not seen John Rambo in First Blood? That's essential what this movie was, a man being hunted down by the bad guys in the forest and Rambo or Jag Paw, in this case, takes them down one by one, using all his knowledge of the forest to heal his wounds and to make lethal weapons and traps. Another reason I wouldn't over rate the movie were the number of glaringly obvious " that is unlikely to happen" moments. 1) What are the chances that a solar eclipes occurs just as our hero is about to be sacrificed? Several million to one I would guess. 2) What are the chances that our fully fit hero could out run a enraged Jaquar , very slim indeed, so if our hero was injured as he was the chances fall from slim to virtually no chance. 3) For such a skilled and knowledgeable hunter in his own territory how come the location of waterfall came as such a big suprise to him? Surely it wasn't too small for him to have missed before! Even if the waterfall wasn't known to our hero previously then how come he couldn't detect it either from the sound or his previously heightened sense of detection which allows him to sence forest intruders before anyone else? 4) Having survived the waterfall our hero boasts that he is back in his forest now which he knows inside out , then proceeds to walk straight into a pit of quick sand! They must have have put that in whilst he was away! 5) Pits don't fill up THAT quickly with rain water! Even if it did fill up with rain water surely our heroes family would have developed good swimming skills (Living so close to the sea) and would have been able to hold out or even float to the top of the pit. To conclude this movie is worth a watch but has too many farfetched moments to take seriously.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

0

MiroDeHoyosJan 21, 2007

I think the historical background has been modified, there is no such history like that. Mayan civilization was one of the most advanced civilizations in the history of humanity. They were really inteligent, great astronomers, greatI think the historical background has been modified, there is no such history like that. Mayan civilization was one of the most advanced civilizations in the history of humanity. They were really inteligent, great astronomers, great mathematicians, and very respectful in their sacrifice ceremonies, and this is not shown in this movie.… Expand

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10

BrianDowdyJan 20, 2007

Should get best picture/director/actor, but it won't. This is an awesome movie that I saw twice last year and the images (eating testicles) stick with me still today. Gibson really knows how to ramp up the violence! This is pureShould get best picture/director/actor, but it won't. This is an awesome movie that I saw twice last year and the images (eating testicles) stick with me still today. Gibson really knows how to ramp up the violence! This is pure adrenaline, better than any Rocky, fight movie you could consider. This movie is a Rush. Go see it. No other movie this past year gets a 4/4 except this one. Don't believe the hype about the violence. It's not THAT bad. I've seen worse. Excellent film!… Expand

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8

MarkB.Jan 17, 2007

Nearly three years ago, while squeamishly preparing myself to see Mel Gibson's now-legendary The Passion of the Christ, I stopped in a favorite sports bar and, learning that the bartender on duty had already seen it, asked her if I Nearly three years ago, while squeamishly preparing myself to see Mel Gibson's now-legendary The Passion of the Christ, I stopped in a favorite sports bar and, learning that the bartender on duty had already seen it, asked her if I should have a courage- fortifying beer beforehand. "Yes," she replied, "and one after, too!" Gibson's followup might well demand a six-pack before viewing by the overly sensitive--any movie that opens with testicle-eating (animal, not human) is one that isn't shy about letting the audience know early on what it's in for--but if you're prepared for where Mel takes you, Apacalypto is one of the purest, most viscerally exciting and visually stunning action movies of the last several years. It helps enormously that the likable hero, Jaguar Paw (Rudy Youngblood) is motivated not by revenge (justifiable though this might be) but by self-defense and preservation of his family...especially when his wife and little boy represent the zenith of noncloying adorableness. Gibson's much-publicized use of the Mayan language throughout turns out to be something of a moot point: after the establishing sequences (which feature lots of tribal male bonding and practical joking, just what you'd expect from the director of Braveheart and a rabid Three Stooges fan), the action becomes so clearly set that Apocalypto would've worked beautifully as a silent film. And while you don't normally expect to use (or read) words like "subtlety", "thoughtfulness" and "nuance" when referring to the cinema of Mel Gibson, Apocalypto's left-field final twist brings the movie's breathless pacing and vivid violence to a surprisingly somber, reflective close. It also forces viewers to redefine again the controversial filmmaker who rather puzzlingly became the darling of the right-wing media with Passion (as though identifying and supporting intensely with Jesus' suffering in his last hours on earth and supporting troop buildups in Iraq and turning a deaf ear to restrictions on torturing prisoners were somehow synonymous) but recently made some anti-Bush statements that confounded the right-wing press while delighting those moviegoers who, like me, found absolutely nothing wrong with loving both Passion AND Fahrenheit 9/11. Being a big fan of Apocalypto as well doesn't prevent me from expressing a few reservations and misgivings, though: as far as certain other, far more heavily-publicized, tequila-fueled utterances made by Mel are concerned, it's hard to completely put them out of one's mind during a sequence in which Jaguar Paw, fleeing from Mayans attempting to sacrifice him to their gods, comes across some examples of their brutal handiwork that unavoidably brought to mind certain Holocaust photos and films I've seen. Equally disturbing is that, as hugely effective and even enjoyable as Apocalypto is during most of its running time, its maker (who reportedly encouraged director Ron Howard to use a lot more ketchup during the shootout scenes in Ransom) seems to be having just a little bit too much Herschell Gordon Lewis-style fun filming the tribal atrocities he's putting up on screen. Remember the junior high school boys' room admonition "Shake it more than twice and you're playing with it"? Put it this way: depicting one human sacrifice qualifies as legitimate plot revelation...but going back and lovingly doing it all over again is masturbation.… Expand

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10

JamesG.Jan 15, 2007

Great film, excellent!!! Well worth a watch; had my girlfriend in tears. One of the best films I have seen in a long time.

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9

NabeelM.Jan 15, 2007

Awesome piece of work. Truly shows how brutal man can get. There's one thing I need to say before I leave for those who are complaining about this movie being excessively violent. They should either try to understand the meaning of Awesome piece of work. Truly shows how brutal man can get. There's one thing I need to say before I leave for those who are complaining about this movie being excessively violent. They should either try to understand the meaning of 'Rated - R' before buying a ticket in the theatres or buy a lolly pop and hold mommy's little finger before entering the theatre to watch Pingu.… Expand

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9

BettyM.Jan 14, 2007

This film was astounding. Lucky I wasn't deterred by the shallow reviews I encountered. I left the movie overwhelmed by thoughts of things like the value of family, simplicity, leadership, community, fear, wealth and our This film was astounding. Lucky I wasn't deterred by the shallow reviews I encountered. I left the movie overwhelmed by thoughts of things like the value of family, simplicity, leadership, community, fear, wealth and our 'civilization' . The violence is intense but I don't agree with those who think it was indulgent (I should admit to watching a few scenes through my fingers though). Mel Gibson continues to amaze me with he manages to bring to a screen.… Expand

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10

NiallL.Jan 14, 2007

Stunning - fantastic story telling. A wonderful cinematic experence - visually spectacular. Makes the heart pound relentlessly. Perhaps it lacks only an emphimeral dimension but I don't think that this detracts in the slightest.

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10

alteregoJan 14, 2007

Isnt Film is a great medium? Where else can you show the brutality of real life in such an artful way? Mel Gibson is a genuine moviemaker who obviously refuses to make the typical 'isnt-life-great' film...I am happy that we finally Isnt Film is a great medium? Where else can you show the brutality of real life in such an artful way? Mel Gibson is a genuine moviemaker who obviously refuses to make the typical 'isnt-life-great' film...I am happy that we finally get to see a movie that makes our adrenalin rush AND seriously think about human nature, it has fascinating faces in it, heartstopping action-scenes and a special atmosphere that definitely makes it one of the most interesting movies of the year...if you cant stand blood and truth, go watch gilmore girls! THANKS MEL.… Expand

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10

JohnV.Jan 14, 2007

My wife and I discussed the symbolisms for hours! It really made me think of the world around us and inspired me to make a difference. Thank You Mr. Gibson.

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9

MikeH.Jan 13, 2007

Highly coherent and entertaining. Regardless of your opinion on Gibson, his direction in Apocalypto is sensational, often gritty and confronting at times yet offering enough scope to appreciate the Mayan civilization itself. Although Highly coherent and entertaining. Regardless of your opinion on Gibson, his direction in Apocalypto is sensational, often gritty and confronting at times yet offering enough scope to appreciate the Mayan civilization itself. Although violent, it is not exceptionally different from many other violent films released currently. A brilliant release.… Expand

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9

ArielG.Jan 12, 2007

Mel Gibson did it again with this movie! I'll have to admit to being afraid that he may have lost his film-making touch due to the problems in his personal life (alcoholism and racist rants). But I'm glad that I was proved wrong. Mel Gibson did it again with this movie! I'll have to admit to being afraid that he may have lost his film-making touch due to the problems in his personal life (alcoholism and racist rants). But I'm glad that I was proved wrong. Apocalypto was easily one of better movies I've seen these past few months. The story grips you right from the very beginning, and doesn't let go until the credits come up at the very end. The intensity is apparent throughout the entire movie, and there is a sense of danger and foreboding in every scene. Visually it was beautiful to watch, and we're given characters that we care about and sympathize with. I would gave it a rating of 10/10 if it weren't for the gratuitous gore and violence in the movie, which made some parts hard to watch. I understand he was trying to convey the sort of brutality at the time, but I don't think it needed to be as graphic as it was. So I took away 1 point from my rating. But still a great movie from a great film-maker!… Expand

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9

MIGUELG.Jan 12, 2007

Very Original. Adventure action drama full of thrills, suspense, and a powerful love story. Its environment and civilization apocalypses seems oddly very current.

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3

JulienJan 12, 2007

It's so violent that we finish by thinking that Mel Gibson is a sick person. His last movie is not even interesting because of its bad direction, and its stupid story. Hopefully we can save some good moments of action in the jungle for It's so violent that we finish by thinking that Mel Gibson is a sick person. His last movie is not even interesting because of its bad direction, and its stupid story. Hopefully we can save some good moments of action in the jungle for example, but it's not enough to say that "Apocalypto" has to be seen. At least it's not worse than "The Passion".… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful

9

OAKsideJan 11, 2007

What a film. Never boring, and never before have the Mayans been on screen like this. A must-watch for 2007. Oh, and Ana C., to give this, of all movies, a zero for "blood and gore" is disgusting. Leave and never come back, please.

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6

SnowyJan 10, 2007

Violent and cruel movie ??? I ignore if it is the goal of Mel Gibson, but this movie just reminded me of comics or of primitive frescos. It is a childish and ludicrous movie with all the funny excesses of comics (man whose heart was takenViolent and cruel movie ??? I ignore if it is the goal of Mel Gibson, but this movie just reminded me of comics or of primitive frescos. It is a childish and ludicrous movie with all the funny excesses of comics (man whose heart was taken away but still alive and shouting and begging for his life; hero running faster than a panther; sun eclipse saving the hero's life at the last moment; fountain of blood so caricatural and aritificial that even the most sensitive soul can only laugh in front of this guignol, etc. If you take that as a cinematographic joke, you can have a good time and fun at watching this movie. It would be better to add to the title of this movie "Apocalypto or the New Adventures of Tintin and Snowy in the Land of the Mayas". One thing is clear to me : Mel Gibson is the most childish filmmaker of his generation with a mental level of a 10 year old boy.… Expand

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10

BernardB.Jan 10, 2007

Undoubtedly the best action film ever shot.100% pure adrenaline.Blood and gore match the Mayan civilization of yore and criticizing Mel Gibson's realistic viewpoint is actually quite laughable.

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8

WetwebworkJan 8, 2007

Great action film. The era and atmosphere are fantastic, and the action relentless. Probably one for the big screen.

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9

JasonL.Jan 8, 2007

Yeah it's violent. Yeah it's not factually 100% correct. Yeah Mel Gibson has lost the plot. But none of those facts make this movie bad. Who cares about the politics of it all when you have the chance to see something like this. It Yeah it's violent. Yeah it's not factually 100% correct. Yeah Mel Gibson has lost the plot. But none of those facts make this movie bad. Who cares about the politics of it all when you have the chance to see something like this. It is stunning and really quite fresh. I hope he makes more just like it.… Expand

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8

JohnJan 8, 2007

Inasmuch as the violence shocked me, I was forced to recognize that this was in fact what happened in Maya civilization. They performed ritualistic human sacrifice on a massive scale. We do it too, but as long as the American publicInasmuch as the violence shocked me, I was forced to recognize that this was in fact what happened in Maya civilization. They performed ritualistic human sacrifice on a massive scale. We do it too, but as long as the American public doesn't have to see it, they can digest the reality (not unlike the way we eat packaged meat, just as long as we don't see the chickens being slaughtered). We've become so numbed to death, that the lastest figures of those killed on a daily basis in Iraq is reported alongside the latest rising and falling stock prices. We're no longer shocked. Doesn't that speak volumes about the parallels in our societies?… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

GavinM.Jan 7, 2007

An absolute must-see. Incredibly convincing and exciting, though the violence is stomach-churning.

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10

MattO'SJan 7, 2007

the most intense, nail-biting, seat grabbing flick i have seen all year. i have not left a cinema felling so tense since i saw tarintinos hostel, which by no means was a great film, but very gruesome. the movie has you has you captivated fromthe most intense, nail-biting, seat grabbing flick i have seen all year. i have not left a cinema felling so tense since i saw tarintinos hostel, which by no means was a great film, but very gruesome. the movie has you has you captivated from start to finish. the setting is perfect, its great to see an all hispanic cast of virtual nobodies - who can act, and the ancient mayan language caps it off and adds to the overall sinister tone of the film. not for the light hearted but a must see in my opinion.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

0

AnaC.Jan 6, 2007

Blood and gore. Nasty movie.

0 of 1 users found this helpful

10

SolN.Jan 6, 2007

I just came from the movie theater and searched the internet to rate this film. One word, Brilliant!

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9

MauriceD.Jan 6, 2007

This is a fantastic movie, Gibson is a true artist.

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10

HardishJan 6, 2007

This was an intense rollercoaster cinematic experience. How times have changed--20 years ago this would've possibly been classed as a mondo movie (probably with smaller production values and banned) and even 10 years ago in the UK this This was an intense rollercoaster cinematic experience. How times have changed--20 years ago this would've possibly been classed as a mondo movie (probably with smaller production values and banned) and even 10 years ago in the UK this movie would've seen censor cuts before a cinema release. Yes, it's violent and gory but Gibson is one of them rare directors who is not afraid to tell a story so real, that as an audience member, I was pretty much living the experience on the screen. Beautiful, uncomprimising and emotional on many levels.… Expand

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4

jJan 6, 2007

oh. my. what a pile of s**t. visually amusing...but the plot? usual mel stuff. man loses (or is threatened to lose) his family. man goes on rampage and faces great adversity, often dying in the process. the end. please watch The Patriot,oh. my. what a pile of s**t. visually amusing...but the plot? usual mel stuff. man loses (or is threatened to lose) his family. man goes on rampage and faces great adversity, often dying in the process. the end. please watch The Patriot, Braveheart and now this....wonder if it is even historically accurate - find it hard to believe the Mayan culture was soo primitive.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

6

rostokovJan 6, 2007

The base elements that give this film its appeal were already in place before this idea was a twinkle in Mel's eyes. The truly exotic immediacy of the Mayan culture; its dress, its architecture and, of course, its brutal sacrifices The base elements that give this film its appeal were already in place before this idea was a twinkle in Mel's eyes. The truly exotic immediacy of the Mayan culture; its dress, its architecture and, of course, its brutal sacrifices would appeal to most filmmakers. As it is, Mel comes to the culture obsessed with its brutality, which is no bad thing, but unfortunately he does not support this interest with any further insight. How has Mayan civilisation progressed to this level of bloodshed? Is it perhaps a natural eventuality of civilisation? How does the hierarchy function to support it? Does power corrupt all? Only one scene, where a village elder ruminates on man's unquenchable greed, attends to these ideas, and it is never followed up. I would have preferred it if more time was spent in the Mayan city, especially with its leader and his court (maybe the eclipse that blesses our hero could have granted him that power). So Mel has fashioned a basic action film, ok. But unfortunately he has only the stomach for it, not the mind. There is little coherence in his shooting style; the film certainly reaches a base level of visceral excitement through its violent excess, but he does not structure his action in a deliberate and instructive way, like Spielberg or Cuaron would. Instead what we often get is a frenetic impressionistic depiction of action. Despite all these criticisms, I still would recommend this film to viewers interested in Mayan culture or those just seeking pure action entertainment. I just know there's a better film in there.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

MiklosP.Jan 5, 2007

Really excellent. Violent and bloody, may not be for everyone - Mel overdoes it again a little bit, but overall a great achievement and a compelling, entertaining movie.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

8

BillJ.Jan 3, 2007

This movie was absolutely fantastic. It drew me into the film in the beginning with humor and it led to a very adrenaline pumping experience.

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10

VinceUndisclosedJan 2, 2007

Absolutely amazing. Graphic, but really gets your attention. Very well thought out, written, and displayed on the screen.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

10

erinbJan 2, 2007

I could not understand why people couldn't believe that part of Maya culture was sacrificing their captives. I don't question opinions on historical accuracy but this is a movie not a documentary. The violence was apt for how the I could not understand why people couldn't believe that part of Maya culture was sacrificing their captives. I don't question opinions on historical accuracy but this is a movie not a documentary. The violence was apt for how the order of things were conducted in those days. I take the movie for what it is...it shows the demise of a decadent culture that has become numb to violence and has lost its respect for life. If this was directed by somebody else it would have gotten rave reviews for portraying the parallelisms that exist in the world then and what exists in the world now.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

2

joezJan 1, 2007

instead of any context/story, the film's focus is on exhaustingly long scenes of drawn out violence. by the time the movie delivered its punchline almost every theatre goer had already given up on finding any meaning in it. instead of instead of any context/story, the film's focus is on exhaustingly long scenes of drawn out violence. by the time the movie delivered its punchline almost every theatre goer had already given up on finding any meaning in it. instead of gripping their seats, people were gripping their cell phones and jackets just waiting for the debauchle to end.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

5

KevinBDec 31, 2006

Unfortunately, I have to agree with other reviews when they say it's basically slight remakes of Braveheart and Passion. The only reason I give this a 5 is because of the chase scene. Very well done. Had me on the edge of my seat. But Unfortunately, I have to agree with other reviews when they say it's basically slight remakes of Braveheart and Passion. The only reason I give this a 5 is because of the chase scene. Very well done. Had me on the edge of my seat. But the rest however was just a dull feeling of watching TV on a Sunday night when nothings on.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful

9

UliDDec 30, 2006

A fascinating movie. Unfortunately Mel Gibson does not receive the credit he deserves.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

10

JerryK.Dec 28, 2006

From beginning to end I was on the edge of my seat. I learned a lot about the Mayan culture and it was a very worthwhile experience.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

5

seDec 27, 2006

Typical gibson gore-fest for 2/3 of the movie. not worth watching. 2 dimensional characters.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

A.M.Dec 27, 2006

Very realistic rendering Mayan/Aztec life with a story that was exciting and full of action. Costumes were excellent, filming and storyline very believable, overall I really liked this film. I thought it was original and not as violent as Very realistic rendering Mayan/Aztec life with a story that was exciting and full of action. Costumes were excellent, filming and storyline very believable, overall I really liked this film. I thought it was original and not as violent as the critics said.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

2

KimMDec 26, 2006

It's too bad. I could have gone home being amazed with the production, Mel's visionary direction of the actors, and Mel 's decision to explore the topic of the apocalypse (or maybe Mel would prefer I say, 'an' It's too bad. I could have gone home being amazed with the production, Mel's visionary direction of the actors, and Mel 's decision to explore the topic of the apocalypse (or maybe Mel would prefer I say, 'an' apocalypse') via a rich story of the Mayan civilization. Instead, I left the theater thinking about how much gratuitous violence Mel felt was necessary to drive his point home. Now, don't get me wrong, folks. I don't have a problem with seeing violence and gore. I just don't have to see blood pulsing out of yet another man and out of yet another orifice to get the message. Whatever it was, Mel. I actually left the theater with the impression that this movie was possibly inspired by Mel's experience(s) with episodes of alcohol induced delirium tremens. What a waste of an afternoon, Mel.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

DaleM.Dec 26, 2006

Excellent. Typical of Gibson in the way he juxtaposes scenes of tremedous violence with scenes of commonplace tenderness. This movie may be too vilolent for some viewers, but filmgoers who enjoy teen-oriented blood and gore movies will be Excellent. Typical of Gibson in the way he juxtaposes scenes of tremedous violence with scenes of commonplace tenderness. This movie may be too vilolent for some viewers, but filmgoers who enjoy teen-oriented blood and gore movies will be disappointed. The point of the movie is not to present violence and to scare you. The movie shows a world where there is both violence and tenderness. It's the same world as in Passion of the Christ and Braveheart. The poet Yeats said it well: when the domestic world of tenderness is violated, "a terrible beauty is born." It is terrible and it is beautiful and it is awe-inspiring. We come away appreciating the commonplace more than ever.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

7

SteveHDec 26, 2006

If you are looking for different kind of movie this holiday season, this is it. This movie throws you into a Darwinian world that allows for few mistakes. The main character lives happily in this world until a stronger group enslaves them. If you are looking for different kind of movie this holiday season, this is it. This movie throws you into a Darwinian world that allows for few mistakes. The main character lives happily in this world until a stronger group enslaves them. The rest of the movie shows him running to survive. My only knock on this movie is that the violence goes a little too far. After the first beheading, you get it, "These people are bad"… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

8

nathaliey.Dec 24, 2006

At first I was a bit dissapointed but now I want to go see it sgain.Mel Gibson should had focused more on their inteligence and discories instead of those bloody scenes.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

2

noodlenozzleDec 24, 2006

For real? A freaking full moon appears on the same night following a total solar eclipse. If you knew anything about astronomy, you would immediately be able to discern that this is impossible. Then, add some more cheesy special effects, no For real? A freaking full moon appears on the same night following a total solar eclipse. If you knew anything about astronomy, you would immediately be able to discern that this is impossible. Then, add some more cheesy special effects, no substantial plot, and then to top it off, time traveling Spaniards. Stay away! If you already bought the tickets, don't go chasing bad money with good money by wasting your gas and overpaying for snacks to see this movie. Give those tickets to the shredder.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

10

JakeT.Dec 23, 2006

If you cannot seperate a man's words from his art, then DO NOT review his work. You lose alot of credibility as a critic when you give such an incredible piece of work a bad review...too bad.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

MichaelP.Dec 23, 2006

I took this film for what it was--a fast and furious thriller about "primative" people fighting for survival--and loved every minute of it. My pulse was pounding when I left the theater, the violence and well-deserved revenge gave me a I took this film for what it was--a fast and furious thriller about "primative" people fighting for survival--and loved every minute of it. My pulse was pounding when I left the theater, the violence and well-deserved revenge gave me a much-needed emotional release. There's absolutely nothing politically correct about this movie, Gibson pulls out all the stops. The graphic violence and completely unvarnished view of human nature probably does upset some people--it's not for the faint of heart. However, if you don't mind looking life straight in the face and want to see an exciting, fast-paced thriller in a very unusual setting, you'll enjoy this film. (The only reason I gave it a 9 was that there were a few technical flaws that broke the spell a little bit for me, like having the moon overhead the night after a solar eclipse, and a human heart beating after it's been pulled from a body, etc.)… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

2

LucianoS.Dec 22, 2006

Disappointing from beginning to end, If you like action "Blood Diamond" is a much better choice. Historically inaccurate, this movie is nothing more than any action film like Rambo or any of the Steven Seagal movies. The plot was poor, the Disappointing from beginning to end, If you like action "Blood Diamond" is a much better choice. Historically inaccurate, this movie is nothing more than any action film like Rambo or any of the Steven Seagal movies. The plot was poor, the action predictable, the characters not well developed, and the Sequences at the great Mexican Pyramids where not impressive at all. There are far better movies out there today or even at the video store. I have loved other Mel Gibson… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

2

ChrisH.Dec 22, 2006

I voted this movie a 2 in honor of the 2 scenes in the entire movie that were interesting. This movie was made for the lowest common denominator. The action is boring and the plot (what little there is) is predictable. I would recommend I voted this movie a 2 in honor of the 2 scenes in the entire movie that were interesting. This movie was made for the lowest common denominator. The action is boring and the plot (what little there is) is predictable. I would recommend seeing this movie, but only to show how truly untalented Gibson is.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

2

PRDec 22, 2006

A pukka shell necklace of cliches strung on a formula. I know less about the Maya now having watched it.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

10

NandiDec 20, 2006

Mel Gibson proves himself again as a true independent in Hollywood. I do not share his religious beliefs and expected this film to be more beholden to his Catholic beliefs but I was amazed at his objective characterization of two sides of a Mel Gibson proves himself again as a true independent in Hollywood. I do not share his religious beliefs and expected this film to be more beholden to his Catholic beliefs but I was amazed at his objective characterization of two sides of a highly "advanced" culture, of course in dramatically and very spell bindingly terse terms. In the end the "righteous" Christians are actually portrayed as the scariest monsters in the film. This film was packed with energy and horrifyingly violent but to this film viewer who is a big fan of Jean Jacgues Rosseau', "noble savage' it hit me as being very realistic, with a solid understanding of the corrupting nature of civilization and struck a deep chord within me. Bravo Mel!… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

ErikN.Dec 19, 2006

Mel Gibson proves once again that he is a terrific director. Action movie making at its best.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

KM.Dec 19, 2006

Gibson has presented us with a remarkable version of Mayan history, focusing in at once on the social fabric of a small village and a complex city. The actors are outrageously authentic, the costumes stupendous and the cinematography Gibson has presented us with a remarkable version of Mayan history, focusing in at once on the social fabric of a small village and a complex city. The actors are outrageously authentic, the costumes stupendous and the cinematography drop-dead gorgeous. Having the characters speak in the surviving dialect capped the authenticity of the experience for this viewer. I am no fan of Mr. Gibson as a person, but he is a dynamic and visionary director. Definitely a big screen must-see!… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

8

ChadS.Dec 18, 2006

"An Occurence at Owl Creek" was atypical of "The Twilight Zone"(it was more like a French short subject film), but "Apocalypto" bears an uncanny resemblance to both. The payoff for this visionary film is executed with Rod Serling-like "An Occurence at Owl Creek" was atypical of "The Twilight Zone"(it was more like a French short subject film), but "Apocalypto" bears an uncanny resemblance to both. The payoff for this visionary film is executed with Rod Serling-like precision. For me, and for others, what the Mayans are confronted with is akin to a twist ending, because some of us thought the cause of the Mayans' demise was greater in scale. All that chasing, and there's a lot of chasing (and blood, there's a lot of blood), seems less monotonous in afterthought. There's a method to this anti-Semite's madness. "Apocalypto" is absolutely brilliant in how the film's genre has fluidity, which would be made possible if a viewer from an isolated part of the world (with a primitive culture) migrated to a technologically-advanced country. If you think "Apocalypto" is simple-minded, think again.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

4

Rev.R.Dec 18, 2006

I was watching a remake of the "Naked Prey". The photography was sensational, and the suspense outstanding. I felt Gibson could have done everyone a service with a movie revealing the reasons one of the most sophisticated cultures vanished I was watching a remake of the "Naked Prey". The photography was sensational, and the suspense outstanding. I felt Gibson could have done everyone a service with a movie revealing the reasons one of the most sophisticated cultures vanished (yes barbaric, but they must be understood in their historical context) . Instead, the Mayan civilization is portrayed as a blood-thirsty cult, allowing them to be used much as "leather-face's" family is a great backdrop for the violence of "Texas Chainsaw Massacre". The priests even smile when participating in the violence. For centuries primitive religions have offered blood to the gods in hope of appeasing them; the Mayans were no different. To use a primitive religious belief to set up a violent thriller is hard, for me, to watch. This movie will make money because Gibson knows how to keep you on the edge of your seat. But, it is money that violates the contributions of a people and their heritage who did far more than butcher people.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

10

MikeL.Dec 17, 2006

Highly entertaining and beautifully shot. If you like to cry over the film's historical mistakes why not offer a reference for proper Mayan Civilization learning instead? This is a Hollywood movie, NOT a documentary. And the violence is Highly entertaining and beautifully shot. If you like to cry over the film's historical mistakes why not offer a reference for proper Mayan Civilization learning instead? This is a Hollywood movie, NOT a documentary. And the violence is far worse in other movies than this one. Although there are key scenes with uncensored gore, the violence is no worse than Saving Private Ryan and other blockbusters. People need to quit blowing it out of proportion. This is a great movie. Go see it.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

10

WayneJ.Dec 17, 2006

Absolutely amazing. An epic. Wait 10 years and it will be appreciated for the great film it is. Truly great films are never immediately appreciated by critics or movie fans - it takes time.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

10

DanteJ.Dec 16, 2006

Very suspenseful and exciting, but too short.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

JasonA.Dec 16, 2006

Visually fantastic, the story was compelling and emotional and it kept me on the edge of my seat. I'm not a historian so I don't know how much was fact and fiction but I do know that a lot of the negative reviews of this film are Visually fantastic, the story was compelling and emotional and it kept me on the edge of my seat. I'm not a historian so I don't know how much was fact and fiction but I do know that a lot of the negative reviews of this film are biased and based on personal opinions of Mel and not on the merit of this movie. Maybe my favorite film of 2006.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

2

EthanP.Dec 16, 2006

The logic in this crapfest was so half-baked that it's a wonder there were no random cuts to 1970s porn. [***Spoilers***]: Anyone who has played hide and seek should wonder why it's possible to hide in one's best friend's The logic in this crapfest was so half-baked that it's a wonder there were no random cuts to 1970s porn. [***Spoilers***]: Anyone who has played hide and seek should wonder why it's possible to hide in one's best friend's back yard for half an hour without being found, but it's impossible for a forest-wise Mayan to find reasonable cover *anywhere in the entire Mayan land,* without, of course, letting a single splash of blood fall just as your nemesis runs under your tree-top hiding place so that it may later be discovered and immediately ascertained by one of your cohorts that the blood must be from you and that you must be hiding in the trees. Because even though those cohorts have just been party to bloody sacrifice, any one of them will easily spot a drop of blood and know for sure that it's from you and your tree-hiding. Run in a straight line for 48 hours(!), and only when we do this scene with the arrows pointing directly at you should you run back and forth in an evasive way. But the arrows will still eventually hit you and all your friends. Because these are skilled Mayan bad guys, until certain scenes in which they've decided not to throw any sharp objects in your direction, which coincidentally occur when you've stopped your running to look back and ponder/taunt your rivals and would be putting yourself in imminent danger had the evil Mayans not decided that it would be a good moment to cease fire and just look at you. And, by the way, they all run at the same pace as you, which happens to be the exact pace at which a jaguar runs. And during a downpour so bad that it fills a good-sized pit faster than a swimming pool, European dingies remain fully afloat.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful

7

PatrickD.Dec 16, 2006

Mel Gibson's films are heart on sleeve action films, and Apocalypto does not do anyting to persuade otherwise. It's overly sentimental in many ways, but in the end hews closer to Braveheart than it does The Passion of the Christ. Mel Gibson's films are heart on sleeve action films, and Apocalypto does not do anyting to persuade otherwise. It's overly sentimental in many ways, but in the end hews closer to Braveheart than it does The Passion of the Christ. The costumes are beautiful and there are some beautiful shots. The problems that I have with the film is that the plot is light and that the grand pronouncement at the beginning of the film is nowhere to be found later. In the end if you want to watch a solid action film with emotional resonance set in a different world, then I'd watch this film.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

10

UnPCReviewDec 16, 2006

All human civilizations were barbaric even while at the same time creating innovations in art, sciences, and technology. This movie addresses the cost of civilization, you have classes of people. Warriors trained only to kill, peasants only All human civilizations were barbaric even while at the same time creating innovations in art, sciences, and technology. This movie addresses the cost of civilization, you have classes of people. Warriors trained only to kill, peasants only skilled for farming, slaves only skilled for the quarries, greedy mechants putting prices on everything, rulers and priests controlling the masses. In the small village no such class structure existed, everything was a lot simpler. It was not as corruptible an environment as the civilization. Not once did the movie even refer to the civilization as being the Maya and theres no way of knowing for sure whether all sacrificial victims came from willing citizens. It's stupid to give this movie a 3 because you think it didn't represent Mayans fairly. The truth is human sacrifice was first practiced by the Mayans and it was carried out by the empires that succeded the Mayans (Toltecs/Aztecs). Mel used the Mayan civilization as a metaphor for all civilizations. Even with the appearance of the Spanish at the end our protaganist is smart enough to realize they are no different than the Mayans.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

[Anonymous]Dec 15, 2006

Very violent, flip your switch into desensitized and you will be moved by the human element.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

3

KristenH.Dec 14, 2006

This film was terrible!!!!! The most historically inaccurate movie I have ever seen! The only good thing about the movie were the costumes. The Mayans were not the barbarians that Mel Gibson made them out to be. Get the facts straight, you This film was terrible!!!!! The most historically inaccurate movie I have ever seen! The only good thing about the movie were the costumes. The Mayans were not the barbarians that Mel Gibson made them out to be. Get the facts straight, you anti-mayanist! I want my money back.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful

10

MICHAELA.Dec 14, 2006

Amazing! Hypnotic! Electrifying! Gibson has channeled the anchient Mayans and traveled back through the centuries bringing us a masterpiece. This filmic achievement places Mel Gibsen next to Hitchcock, Bergman, Welles, Coppola and Scorsese. Amazing! Hypnotic! Electrifying! Gibson has channeled the anchient Mayans and traveled back through the centuries bringing us a masterpiece. This filmic achievement places Mel Gibsen next to Hitchcock, Bergman, Welles, Coppola and Scorsese. Apocalypto is a stunning piece of cinematic magic and awe.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

10

JonathanP.Dec 13, 2006

Some of these comments are as asinine as the reviews were. The violence was mostly limited to a handful of scenes and completely overblown. As a film, it's a fantastic portrayal into how life was in that era and proves that Mel Gibson Some of these comments are as asinine as the reviews were. The violence was mostly limited to a handful of scenes and completely overblown. As a film, it's a fantastic portrayal into how life was in that era and proves that Mel Gibson has an unparalleled ability at transporting the audience to another era.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

AaronH.Dec 12, 2006

I find it hard to believe that so many people are giving this movie below a 5. I can understand that it is not everyone's cup of tea, but overall its a well made movie. I liked the story and I really cared about the plight of Jaguar Paw I find it hard to believe that so many people are giving this movie below a 5. I can understand that it is not everyone's cup of tea, but overall its a well made movie. I liked the story and I really cared about the plight of Jaguar Paw and his tribe. It is essentially a different take on the Braveheart and Patriot formulas. If you liked either of these movies (Braveheart is one of my favorites and I thought the Patriot was very good) then I think you would like this movie. It's violent and gory in parts, but this aspect of the film is being exagerated by many. The graphic nature of the violence and suffering is in the ball park of what was in Braveheart, but it is nowhere as bad as The Passion of the Christ or many horror movies. I cant help but think that some people's views of this film are being influenced by Gibson's personal history and ultra graphic The Passion of the Christ. If this had opened before The Passion of the Christ and Mel's drunken incident the reviews would probably be significantly higher. Being that Braveheart was first I can't give it a 10, but it was one of my favorites this year and one I would like to see again.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

3

GeoffB.Dec 12, 2006

A waste of $8.50 and 2 hrs of my life. There is very little to this movie. Pay only to see it on video if you have nothing else to do. As some have declared this movie to be "Wonderful" and "Amazing", I declare it to be very unwonderful and A waste of $8.50 and 2 hrs of my life. There is very little to this movie. Pay only to see it on video if you have nothing else to do. As some have declared this movie to be "Wonderful" and "Amazing", I declare it to be very unwonderful and definitely unamazing.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

4

JohnAchornDec 12, 2006

Beautifully shot, great sound track and acting... relentless violence to what end? Another Euro-centric vision of history, totally inaccurate in historical context; much of the action is predicatable... too much stretches one's Beautifully shot, great sound track and acting... relentless violence to what end? Another Euro-centric vision of history, totally inaccurate in historical context; much of the action is predicatable... too much stretches one's believability to create another Gibson super man.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

JasonJacinthoDec 11, 2006

Hoberman and Toppman.... Hmmm, I wonder why they didn' t like this movie. Anyway, the movie is great. Braveheart was awesome and I didn't like The Passion all that much. Apoc is a stunning film. If the scenes depicted were inHoberman and Toppman.... Hmmm, I wonder why they didn' t like this movie. Anyway, the movie is great. Braveheart was awesome and I didn't like The Passion all that much. Apoc is a stunning film. If the scenes depicted were in Mayan hieroglyphics, guess what? It is an accurate historical portayal! Women may not like the portayal of violence because they don't like to live in reality (OK, maybe a few do), so stay home and watch something relevant like Friends. This movie rocks. The only reason I didn't give it a 10 is because there are a few irrelevant scenes like the tree falling. How did that make the cut?… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

AmeronA.Dec 11, 2006

You can hate Mel Gibson, but that doesn't mean his art is bad. In fact, I went in this movie with kind of a chip on my shoulder. When I left, I felt my money was justified. The story is a basic story of human survival in an historic You can hate Mel Gibson, but that doesn't mean his art is bad. In fact, I went in this movie with kind of a chip on my shoulder. When I left, I felt my money was justified. The story is a basic story of human survival in an historic setting. There are some down points, the gore was a bit much, some of the animal animatroinic part looked silly. But it makes up with great acting, gorgeous visuals, and a good story.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

6

ThomasB.Dec 11, 2006

Everyone's harping on the gore like this is some kind of Tarantino film. There are scenes with realistic violence, but it's nothing beyond any contemporary action or horror film. The acting and cinematography were beautiful, and I Everyone's harping on the gore like this is some kind of Tarantino film. There are scenes with realistic violence, but it's nothing beyond any contemporary action or horror film. The acting and cinematography were beautiful, and I thought the chase story was really compelling. It was reminescent of an asian vengeance film (maybe sans vengeance). Just one thing nagged at me, kept my rating so low. I was appalled at the use of the Durant quote in the beginning, the suggestion apparently that the indigenous peoples of the Americas were somehow asking to be decimated by Europeans. Pretty irresponsible message from a director who should be watching his image a little more carefully these days.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

AaronM.Dec 11, 2006

Extremely original, intense, often moving, and unforgettable. I really hope this movie does well at the box office cause it's worth seeing. Mel Gibson has done it again.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

3

RobertH.Dec 11, 2006

Mel's report card: For using indigenous language and "unknown" actors: A. For giving us yet another chop-chop action flick like "King Kong" or any of its pals: a bit fat So What? For cynically and pretentiously disguising the whole Mel's report card: For using indigenous language and "unknown" actors: A. For giving us yet another chop-chop action flick like "King Kong" or any of its pals: a bit fat So What? For cynically and pretentiously disguising the whole thing as some sort of historical meditation: F.… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful

9

GiterdoneDec 11, 2006

Simply Amazing film. Heart pounding, intense and gripping throughout. Definitely the best of the year. The score should be much higher than what is being reported on Metacritic. Make no mistake, it is a violent film, but all of it is Simply Amazing film. Heart pounding, intense and gripping throughout. Definitely the best of the year. The score should be much higher than what is being reported on Metacritic. Make no mistake, it is a violent film, but all of it is necessary and well done.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

AmyP.Dec 11, 2006

I went into this movie wondering if I would be able to tolerate all the gore and violence I kept reading about in the reviews of this movie. Instead, I was treated to a visually stunning, wonderful story. There were a couple of scenes where I went into this movie wondering if I would be able to tolerate all the gore and violence I kept reading about in the reviews of this movie. Instead, I was treated to a visually stunning, wonderful story. There were a couple of scenes where I had to avert my eyes, however I have had to do more of that in some of those "teenage" horror flicks that keep on getting released. The story will keep you at the edge of your seat, all the way. Never a false or dull moment. I highly recommend this fascinating movie and hope it gets recognized at Awards time as it so rightly deserves.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

7

FranklinC.Dec 11, 2006

I know this is an allegory, but I like some historical realism with my allegory, thank you very much. Gibson obviously confused the Triple Alliance, or Aztecs if you will, with the Mayan. Additionally, there are other things that don't I know this is an allegory, but I like some historical realism with my allegory, thank you very much. Gibson obviously confused the Triple Alliance, or Aztecs if you will, with the Mayan. Additionally, there are other things that don't fit the historical facts: the contact scene at the film's end feels forced and is surely off in chronological terms as the Mayan civilization declined in 1000 not 1500. Mayans farmed maize, but never in monoculture as we see at the beginning of the chase scene. Mayans were no more blood thirsty than Europeans at the time, either. The film is entertaining, though. Gibson doesn… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

3

LowellK.Dec 10, 2006

More violence and less story than "Texas Chainsaw Massacre". A complete waste of your time and very disturbing for the faint of heart. This is not a date movie of any kind.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

1

jsDec 10, 2006

Wow...this movie begins with dialogue and situations that seem more appropriate for an "American Pie" film and believe me, it's all downhill from there. The film tells you NOTHING about the Mayan culture and has zero plot. The last hour Wow...this movie begins with dialogue and situations that seem more appropriate for an "American Pie" film and believe me, it's all downhill from there. The film tells you NOTHING about the Mayan culture and has zero plot. The last hour is an extended chase scene and anyone who has seen an action film will be able to predict the outcome. If I can prevent just one person from seeing this film, I will have done my job.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

0

FlorenceR.Dec 10, 2006

Nothing but blood and gore. I don't think the Mayans were that bloodthirsty and I know they weren't that stupid as to not know about an eclipse of the sun. The last half of the movie is nothing but a chase through the jungle with Nothing but blood and gore. I don't think the Mayans were that bloodthirsty and I know they weren't that stupid as to not know about an eclipse of the sun. The last half of the movie is nothing but a chase through the jungle with the occasional scene of more blood and guts along with a guy with a hole through him from a spear that he removed himself. [***SPOILERS***] So he's bleeding and sweating while for what seems like more than a day ( for him I mean ) with no water or food, then he eventually goes over a falls equal to Niagara, survives that and later gets an arrow through the neck and survives that to keep on running. Come oooooooon ! Enough already ! What a complete waste of my money. I wouldn't sit through it again it they paid ME !… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

3

TedJ.Dec 10, 2006

This movie was great in conception, cleverly marketed, and, ultimately, really disappointing. The previews gave Apocalypto a sense of mystery and grandeur... it seemed to be so much more than the simplistic adventure film it is, where the This movie was great in conception, cleverly marketed, and, ultimately, really disappointing. The previews gave Apocalypto a sense of mystery and grandeur... it seemed to be so much more than the simplistic adventure film it is, where the hero must save his family by outrunning and outwitting the bad guys. The obscure dialogue and historical context are secondary garnishes that add nothing to a film rife with trite plot elements and ridiculously stupid dialogue. (i.e. at one point a character looks upon a poisoned comrade and says "He's f...ed," ostensibly for comic effect.) The cinematography is effective, but not incredible--the best moments were used for the previews. What really annoyed me was the film's overall lack of subtlety. The film seems to blatantly impose an ultra-conservative's perception of modern America--wicked, corrupt, in decline--onto that of the falling Mayan civilization. In the ten minutes we are shown the great Mayan cities, the citizens are portrayed as cariacatures of corruption: you have the rich, idle, apparently drunken, shit-talking debutantes; the fat, spoiled Mayan prince; the sadistic soldiers, the mute, corrupt leaders. The oft-mentioned violence in this film is indeed pervasive, but apart from a few scenes, this film holds nothing to the genuinely compelling carnage evident in a film like "Old Boy." In Apocalypto, the violence comes across as dressing to a sad dish, and it gets boring. Apocalypto certainly has moments, but it's nothing special. It's worth seeing, but for the wrong reasons.… Expand

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9

LukeM.Dec 10, 2006

The movie never lets you go, and the violence is intense, but it is outstanding. If you don't have a high tolerance for on-screen pain and suffering you should pass. Otherwise I think the cinematography is incredible and the entire The movie never lets you go, and the violence is intense, but it is outstanding. If you don't have a high tolerance for on-screen pain and suffering you should pass. Otherwise I think the cinematography is incredible and the entire picture is visually stunning. Most negative reviews seem to be a reaction to Gibson, or to the typical reviewers distaste for the high testosterone style of the picture. And let's face it. Movie critics were not on the football team, and they've never been hunting. They are not the best suited audience to enjoy a picture like this, which is fine. But for those who can revel in raw entertainment which is lacking in subtlety, this is a treat.… Expand

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9

ChrisDec 10, 2006

This is really an amazing film. I didn't even notice it was subtitled. Another significant accomplishment by Mr. Gibson.

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6

GeorgeC.Dec 10, 2006

After disregarding any personal vendettas with Mel Gibson, you can really begin to engulf yourself in Apocalypto, a new film detailing the downfall of the Mayan civilization. Unlike The Passion of the Christ, this film does not include any After disregarding any personal vendettas with Mel Gibson, you can really begin to engulf yourself in Apocalypto, a new film detailing the downfall of the Mayan civilization. Unlike The Passion of the Christ, this film does not include any Mel propaganda or seemingly fanatic opinions. Though highly entertaining, Apocalypto lacks the intriguing storyline and exciting accents which made Braveheart such a great success and big time Oscar winner. And I can assure you that this film will not be taking home the golden statue. Despite an excellent performance by Rudy Youngblood as the brave Jaguar Paw, the dialogue of Apocalypto can be pretty ridiculous at points (even sticking in the famous … Expand

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Apocalypto

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