Furiosa A Mad Max Saga is an enjoyable hellish nightmare
The Mad Max world is not one that I have found myself seeking out or particularly enjoy being immersed in. The inhabitants are filled with gross deformities and even more perverse minds, which makes the Wasteland a squeamish place to visit. After purchasing my ticket to Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga, I found myself mentally preparing for a difficult trip.
Furiosa serves as an origin story and begins 15 years before the events of Mad Max: Fury Road. Anya Taylor-Joy takes over from Charlize Theron as Furiosa, a girl abducted by a demented motorcycle gang lead by Chris Hemsworth, aptly named Dr. Dementus. Both Taylor-Joy and Hemsworth find themselves in unchartered territory yet are able to shine. When an actor makes you forget about their celebrity status you know they have done a good job. I can honestly say I did not think once of the always valiant Thor while watching Hemsworth onscreen. Meanwhile, Taylor-Joy’s expressive large eyes gave Fuirosa a fresh pulse. The meaningful performances continue with Tom Burke (Praetorian Jack) who says little but emotes much. Moreover, Charlee Fraser (Mary Jo Bassa) steals the opening credits and leaves you wishing she had more screen time.
Within the first few minutes of Furiosa I began to see Director George Miller in a new light. On one hand he paints this cringe-worthy universe but with that same brush he fleshes out female characters who are strong willed and totally bad ass. Comparable to Beatrix “The Bride” and Wonder Woman, each female portrayed is unwavering in her strength and has an innate ability for sacrifice and battle. Miller’s genius continues with his stunning apocalyptic cinematography highlighted by Gas Town and The Bullet Farm. The fast fidgety cuts add another layer to his artistry while taking an exhausted plot and revitalizing it. It is worth noting there is a Mad Max cameo to watch out for while the closing credits will pump you up just when you thought the action was over.
As a woman I expected to be repulsed by this film, instead as a movie buff, I found myself completely enjoying it. Is this movie better than Fury Road? I thought Charlize Theron was excellent but this new chapter makes Furiosa more meaningful because of her backstory, and I found myself liking it even more. With themes of rebirth, vengeance and a good old fashioned David vs Goliath story, Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga is a worthy addition to the franchise.
* I received a request from one of my readers for a review of the 1996 movie Fargo which was both surprising and exciting. After rewatching it I realized I didn’t enjoy as much anymore. Yes, it has its Quentin Tarantino edginess, which in 1996 was revolutionary, but the depiction of small town folk as simple and dimwitted really turned me off. The acting is masterclass but the present changes in attitudes and sensitivities date this movie. That said, Season 2 of the TV series was the best.