Babel (2006)

O An excellent must-see
X Good rental choice
O Mediocre
O Rent something else

Review by Jason Pyles / April 9, 2007

Have you ever thought about how delicately our lives are intertwined? One person’s actions can set in motion an unstoppable chain of events.

Depicted with stark reality, “Babel” is a troubling study of interrelated misfortunes. As we watch the inexorable events unravel, we search for their meaning. But each person who watches “Babel” is likely to glean something different.

“Babel” tells four stories in an engaging, soap-opera style. Each story’s chronology is askew. Unfolding the narrative with these techniques heightens the intrigue and suspense of a film whose subject matter is already proficient at both.

Richard (Brad Pitt) and Susan (Cate Blanchett) retreat to Morocco, seeking resolution for a painful event in the recent past of their marriage. While traveling through the desert, an unthinkable tragedy occurs (and I mean unthinkable). Theirs is only one saga. Two of the three other storylines are just as horrifying, but the deaf-mute girl’s plot doesn’t belong.

“Babel” is upsetting and worrisome. The editing is fine; its themes are just too heavy and inappropriate for children. After watching the film, you feel like you’ve been dragged a few miles. But somehow, it’s a cathartic experience because “Babel” is a great film.

Directed by Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu
Brad Pitt / Cate Blanchett / Adriana Barraza
142 min. Drama
(Original MPAA rating: R)
Edited version age recommendation: 15 and up

DVD release date: February 20, 2007
Copyright 2007.
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