HOSTILES

HOSTILES NOT COOPER'S BEST

Film Review by FIORE

Scott Cooper is one of the more prolific scriptwriters and directors in Hollywood.  His films have a genuine emotional foundation, and his creative visions are spectacular.  I had the opportunity to interview him early in his career, when he was promoting CRAZY HEART, starring Jeff Bridges.  He is articulate, intelligent and inspired.  He helmed several exceptional films, however his latest, HOSTILES, misses the mark.

Writing is Cooper’s forte, but here he falls into a common Tinseltown tarpit; he writes an historical film utilizing modern mentality.  HOSTILES is an apology film to American Indians.  Set in 1892, Cooper attempts to deliver a mea culpa on behalf of European settlers using modern day idioms.  The culture clash is too apparent and provides a glaring jolt, taking the viewer out of the created world.

The theme behind HOSTILES is familiar – don’t judge a man until you’ve walked a mile in his shoes.  This maxim applies to both protagonist and antagonist.  An Indian-fighter, nearing the end of his career with the military, is tasked with escorting one of his dreaded enemies across the mid-west, to die with his people.  Christian Bale is the captain, Wes Studi is the Indian chief.  This is the second time Cooper teams with Bale.  The first, OUT OF THE FURNACE, was a most noble tale of vengeance.

The film also stars Rosamund Pike, who is one of the sexiest actresses on the Silver Screen today.  Her sensuality is enveloped in a tightly wrapped Thespian blanket.  Also in HOSTILES is the incredible Ben Foster, Jesse Plemons, Timothee Chalamet, Rory Cochrane, Scott Wilson and Adam Beach.   It is a stellar cast.  Many in Hollywood like, or want, to work with Cooper.  He is an actor’s director.

Westerns are prone to extravagant visa shoots.  Cinematographer Masanobu Takayanagi provides exceptional panoramas, enhancing the storytelling.

HOSTILES is not a bad film.  It is good for a viewing, but not a second one.  It is not up to the standards Cooper set in his previous endeavors.  While his ending is sharp, the trek to the conclusion is chaotic, confusing today’s mores with yesterday’s realities.