ROB ROY
A film review by Stephen Rafferty
Copyright 1995 Stephen Rafferty
*- Bad, a dog. **- Poor, not much worth seeing ***- Good, had it's good moments ****- Great, well worth seeing *****- First rate, probably one of the years best.
ROB ROY ****
Directed by Michael Caton-Jones Starring Liam Neeson, Jessica Lange, Tim Roth, John Hurt, Brian Cox
Based on the famous Scottish legend, Director Caton-Jones (Scandal) gives this story top notch treatment. Neeson stars as Rob Roy McGregor, a highlander who is the leader of his clan, which with himself work for the Marquis of Montrose (Hurt) and also owns his own piece of land. Making the decision to borrow money from the Marquis and try to sell cattle he herds with the men of his clan, Roy steps on the toes of a visitor of the Marquis played by Tim Roth, and the Factor, Brian Cox.
The story then unfolds as Roy must prove to the Marquis he did not steal his money and also confront Roth, who is the most devilish villain in quite some time.
Being Scottish, I was a little apprehensive about this film, but Jones really has done a superb job. There is great detail given to the way of life and to every facet of Scottish civilization in this period. Neeson is the quintessential hero, and is overpowering in the fight scenes. Lange (BLUE SKY) once again proves why she is one of the hottest actresses around, giving a memorable performance and pulling off quite a good accent. The supporting cast is first rate as well. Hurt (ALIEN) is perfect as the pompous, yet fleeting Marquis, and Cox (HIDDEN AGENDA) is extremely well cast as the Marquis right hand man. However, as has been said by almost all reviews so far, the film belongs to Roth (PULP FICTION, RESERVOIR DOGS) who steals every scene he is in. With just the right amount of effeminate gesturing, his ruthlessness is all the more disturbing. Truly one of the best villains in the past few years.
Karl Walter Lindenlaub's cinematography is exquisite, showing the simple beauty of Scotland.
Stephen Rafferty Florida State University
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