Life of Pi (2012)
A Big Fish meets a big lion.
Presentation:
This film feels spiritually similar to Big Fish. A man interviews a storyteller whom reveals an unbelievable metaphysical experience. What is most impressive is Ang Lee’s range as a filmmaker, seemingly able to intimately understand both Western and Chinese cinema. It’s ultimately a film about discovery amidst survival in a magical adventure. Although there are some painterly beautiful frames, The CGI in this film felt very fake, nearly comparable to Beowulf. I suppose some may attribute this to a dreamlike look, but I personally hated it and it ruined all disbelief.
Conclusion:
Although this isn’t a bad film, a lot of Indian centered films have similar plots of self discovery and most of them are superior. This one just happens to be more memorable for its visuals, which I ultimately found unappealing. It’s not as good as Big Fish, Lion, Slumdog Millionaire, so I would only recommend this film if you haven’t watched those films already.
Recommendations
If a cinephile could have a Princess Bride.