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- Aaron Taylor-Johnson in ‘Savages’
- The Main Selling Point of ‘Savages’
- ‘Savages’ Explores How Far Men Will Go When Pushed to the Brink
As a film enthusiast who has spent countless hours immersed in the world of cinema, I must say that “Savages” is a wild ride that leaves you both entertained and thoughtful. The film’s relentless energy, dark humor, and exploration of human nature when pushed to the brink are elements that resonate deeply with me.
This weekend, Aaron Taylor-Johnson will unleash his wild side in “Kraven the Hunter,” but it was a different kind of danger he faced in the 2012 action thriller “Savages.” Directed by Oliver Stone, this film marked something of a comeback for the director, resembling his more thought-provoking works such as “Natural Born Killers.
Although “Savages” didn’t quite reach the depth of societal and media critique as the other film, it did offer Oliver Stone a platform to showcase his signature style, enhanced by an exceptional ensemble cast that held their own against Stone’s intense tempo. Notably, this movie served as a proving ground for its younger actors, including Blake Lively and Taylor Kitsch, demonstrating they could measure up to Stone’s relentless energy.
Aaron Taylor-Johnson in ‘Savages’
The story of Savages is adapted from Don Winslow’s novel and revolves around two marijuana cultivators: Chon (played by Kitsch), a former Navy Seal, and Ben (Johnson), who appears more interested in the intricacies of botany and the unique strain that makes their marijuana highly sought after by clients. Chon had brought the seeds for the marijuana from Afghanistan, while Ben, with his business and botany degree from UC Berkeley, utilizes his intellect to market their product successfully.
These two friends live it up in sunny Laguna Beach, California, where they can unwind and bask under the sun. What sets their friendship apart is that they’re involved with Ophelia Sage (Lively) in an open relationship, displaying no signs of envy or contempt. Chon is more assertive when it comes to Ophelia, while Ben is soft-spoken and caring. However, their peaceful existence is shattered when Ophelia gets kidnapped by a Mexican drug cartel. The kidnapping is a ploy to force these friends into an alliance they previously rejected. Apart from Johnson, Kitsch, and Lively, the movie also features Benicio del Toro, Demian Bichir, Salma Hayek, Emile Hirsch, and John Travolta.
The Main Selling Point of ‘Savages’
In the previews and commercials for this movie, the main focus has been on the unique open relationship among the three primary characters. It’s no surprise that sex can draw attention, especially when the actors are visually appealing and seem genuinely passionate about portraying their attraction. The connection between the trio is particularly intense, and it changes subtly based on who shares scenes with Lively. Chon, a former Navy Seal with emotional baggage, often shows bursts of aggression that occasionally surface during intimate moments with Ophelia. Yet, her genuine love for him helps balance his turbulent emotions, grounding him in tranquility.
1) Regarding Ben, she admires his tranquil demeanor and his unique approach to life that offers a calmer viewpoint. In the film, the love scenes aren’t overly explicit, but Kitsch’s initial appearance on screen is during an intense passionate scene between the characters. Interestingly, the production team decided to shoot all the sex scenes first, with Stone believing this approach would help them focus better on the rest of the movie later.
For two weeks prior, we rehearsed extensively, discussing the scenes until we were almost exhausted. I recall meeting Blake around three to four days before filming those specific moments, marking the start of our shooting schedule. It involved placing trust in Blake and Oliver, as is customary on any set. To be candid, I was relieved when it was all over. Performing those scenes can feel quite uncomfortable. Given its significance to Chon’s character, it forms a significant part of his introduction, making it an intense unveiling, without intending a pun. It’s all part of the process, but I was glad to have completed it during the first week.
The strong bond between these two best friends is clearly evident. Johnson and Kitsch convincingly portray how these seemingly opposite characters could become friends, with their mutual affection for Ophelia driving them to take extraordinary steps to safeguard her. On one hand, Chon is a volatile individual, ready to resort to violence against anyone who betrays them, while Ben, guided by Buddhist teachings, is a pacifist who uses some of the profits from their drug dealing for charitable causes abroad. Despite their contrasting natures, they complement each other perfectly, and it’s evident that Ophelia is the one common thread tying them together. While their relationship might seem unrealistic in real life, the audience never questions their love for her or hers for them.
‘Savages’ Explores How Far Men Will Go When Pushed to the Brink
As a movie enthusiast, I’d describe “Savages” as an intense, raw, and humorous rollercoaster ride. It delves deep into the primal responses that surface when men find themselves in desperate situations. The film cleverly portrays Alex as a pawn for one of Elena’s adversaries, with the help of the corrupt DEA agent Dennis Cain (Travolta). Lado mercilessly tortures Alex and then drenches him with gasoline, forcing Ben, who is usually pacifistic, to light the match. This harrowing scene leaves Ophelia in shock as she witnesses this dark side of their business. If the movie had continued into their future, one might speculate that this incident could have profoundly affected their relationship, perhaps leaving long-lasting scars.
Although Savages presents ethical dilemmas, it primarily functions as a cinematic experience brimming with extravagance, portrayed through its vivid representations of violence and the marijuana-infused lifestyle of its three principal characters, oblivious to the gravity and peril surrounding their existence. The movie skillfully showcases Stone’s visual prowess without delivering explicit messages or moralizing, a trait often seen in his works.
Opinions about his method were divided, earning a 50% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, yet some prominent critics at the time found it appealing. Notably, Roger Ebert gave the film three and a half stars and stated that “The allure of Savages lies in Stone’s portrayal of the negotiations, which feature complex percentages, shifting scales over three years, a final payout, and other financial aspects shared by drugs and big business. It’s captivating to observe the two parties attempting to outmaneuver each other.
The movie “Savages,” though it may not be considered a timeless classic within its genre, remains an engaging viewing experience. Its conclusion masterfully employs misdirection before veering off into a striking new stylistic direction. Essentially, the film offers a captivating exploration of human nature and the lengths people will go to protect their beloved possessions, all while providing sheer entertainment as events unfold.
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2024-12-16 01:31