Retrospective: Deliverance (1972) Review By: Ryan Davis
Sure there are many films that are called classics. But once I saw this, I knew where a number of newer films got some of their most impressive scenes. Unfortunately, the newer movies seem to execute them better than Deliverance.
Not to say Deliverance isn't a superb film, it is. But I have been spoiled by Tarantino's rendition of the, ever so famous, squeal like a pig scene. For the time this scene must have seemed very shocking, but now it just seems antiquated.
The story involves four men who decide to go on a weekend long canoe trip, in southern Georgia. They meet some strange inbreed locals, who along the way cause some trouble with the group. In what appears to be a life or death situation one of the locals is killed and the group must dispose of the body. Now scared, they begin their journey to the end of the river so they can get home. However, don't expect it to be a leisurely trip.
The performances of the four men (Jon Voight, Burt Reynolds, Ned Beatty, and Ronny Cox) are very impressive. Burt shows the same acting talent here, that he displays in the more recent "Boogie Nights". Ned is also standout as the poor overweight salesmen, who is sodomized by a hillbilly man.
John Boorman's direction is rather impressive. Although when compared to today's, it may seem rather conservative. Vilmos Zsigmond's beautiful cinematography does stand the true test of time, and is just as brilliant now as it was then.
Its hard to believe this movie was shot for a mere two million dollars, something that could never be done today. And even if this movie has not aged as well as some, it certainly is a must see because of its originality and maybe Ned squealing like a pig.
Grade: B+
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