Apocalypto

Apocalypto (Widescreen)

From Mel Gibson, director of "The Passion Of The Christ" and the Academy Award(R)-winning "Braveheart" (Best Director, Best Picture, 1995) comes the thrilling historical epic "Apocalypto." This intense, nonstop action-adventure transports you to an ancient South American civilization, for an experience unlike anything you've ever known. In the twilight of the mysterious Mayan culture, young Jaguar Paw is captured and taken to the great Mayan city where he faces a harrowing end. Driven by the power of his love for his wife and son, he makes an adrenaline- soaked, heart-racing escape to rescue them and ultimately save his way of life. Filled with unrelenting action and stunning cinematography, "Apocalypto" is an enthralling and unforgettable film experience. Audio Commentary, Deleted Scenes. Language: Mayan; Subtitles: English SDH, French and Spanish; "Becoming Mayan: Creating 'Apocalypto'".

Apocalypto DVD

Mel Gibson BRAVEHEART THE PASSION OF THE CHRIST tackles the downfall of Mayan civilization in his latest turn as writerdirector. Jaguar Paw Rudy Youngblood and his fellow villagers lead a peaceful life in the forest until a savage unprovoked attack turns their world upside down. After hiding his pregnant wife and young son from the invaders Jaguar Paw joins in the fight only to be taken prisoner with the rest of the survivors. Uncertain of what the future holds and taken from his home to a thriving metropolis that might as well be a foreign country Jaguar Paw has just one goal--to return to his wife and child. Jaguar Paw's journey is a coming-of-age saga running the gamut of love loss courage and redemption. Filmed in Mexico with a cast of indigenous Americans speaking in the Yucatec dialect this is a tale filled with contrasts. Muted greens and browns define the forest village while the city is awash in bright colors. The wealthy live in opulence sporting elaborate jewelry clothing and hairdos while the villagers wear twig and bone ornaments. The villagers respect both life and nature but the rulers of the great stone city condone violence in an effort to appease their gods. Gibson's point is clear: the more "advanced" society is corrupt and unrepentant while the more primitive Mayans have far greater faith and humanity. Gibson also drives home the recurring theme of rebirth with symbolism including rain pregnancy and the arrival of Christianity. Beautifully filmed by Dean Semler and scored by James Horner APOCALYPTO could benefit from some framing at its beginning to give the viewer a sense of time and place but otherwise offers a rare glimpse into a lost world.