Road to Perdition

Since Paul Newman's death just over a year ago there seems to have been a reevaluation of Sam Mendes' sophomore film, or perhaps it was due to Revolutionary Road his most celebrated film since his strong debut American Beauty.  As a graduation Senior in high school, I was anticipating Mendes' follow-up.  However, like many I admired his film, but felt kind of distanced from it.  There was no denying the stunning Conrad Hill's cinematography and Thomas Newton's score.  Additionally, Paul Newman gave his last great performance, while Tom Hanks gave perhaps his most underrated turn in a subtle quiet performance.  

I finally gave Road to Perdition another chance, and found it to be one of the last decade's most under-appreciated works.  Much like his first film, Mendes presents a cast of characters stuck in their lives.  Yet, the film becomes more than a that, a road movie that serves as a father/son story and a coming-of-age tale.  The film's detachment that seemed to be a detriment of the film, served as more of an asset on a repeated viewing.  Hank's son, whom narrates the story was very much detached from the details of his father's life, and that detachment only serves to bolster this point, making the conclusion more emotionally resonant.  


Another point that escaped me eight years ago was the parallel between Michael Jr. (Hank's son) and the growing nature.  While the film does sort of gloss over the depression hitting the heartland of America, Mendes makes a point to show a growing nation becoming less reliant on agriculture and industry.  Michael represents this new generation that shepherds America into the powerful nation that it will become.  


There is so much more that can be analyzed regarding this movie (sin, redemption, a furthering of the father/son angle and death), but what became apparent is that Road to Perdition deserves a second chance. Multiple viewings only enhance this nuanced picture that should stand the test of time stronger than many other films of 2002.