The world of cinema lost a legend when Roger Ebert passed away in 2013, but his impact continues to resonate. One such testament is his glowing review of the 2006 drama 'Babel', starring Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett, which has recently become available on Prime Video. But why did this film leave such an impression on the renowned critic?
Ebert's review on his website (https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/babel-2006) reveals his admiration for the intricate storytelling of director Alejandro González Iñárritu. 'Babel' weaves together four seemingly unrelated narratives, each set in a different country, but all connected in surprising ways. The story involving Pitt and Blanchett's characters, for instance, takes them on a vacation in Morocco, but their journey is intertwined with other characters' lives in the United States, Mexico, and Japan.
Here's where it gets intriguing: Ebert recognized 'Babel' as the culmination of Iñárritu's mastery. He praised the film's writing and editing, which seamlessly transition between stories, and its ability to elicit empathy for all characters, regardless of their actions. This is a bold statement, especially considering the film's complex narrative structure.
But wait, there's more! 'Babel' is not just a standalone masterpiece. It's the final piece of Iñárritu's 'Death Trilogy', which began with the Spanish-language film 'Amores perros' in 2000 and continued with '21 Grams' in 2003. These films share a non-linear narrative style and explore dark themes, making them a must-watch for cinephiles, albeit with caution due to their heavy subject matter.
Iñárritu's talent didn't go unnoticed by Ebert, who predicted even greater achievements for the director. And he was right! Iñárritu went on to direct 'Birdman' in 2014, a critically acclaimed dark comedy, and 'The Revenant' in 2015, which earned Leonardo DiCaprio his long-awaited Oscar. Both films showcase Iñárritu's unique style and further solidify his place in cinema history.
So, if you're curious about Ebert's rave review or simply want to explore the work of a master filmmaker, 'Babel' is now streaming on Prime Video. And for those who dare to venture deeper into Iñárritu's world, the entire 'Death Trilogy' awaits, offering a unique cinematic experience. But be warned, these films are not for the faint of heart!
