A History of Violence - starring Viggo Mortensen and Maria Bello - director David Cronenberg

A History of Violence

What a great film! I knew nothing about this movie going into it (which I always try, but am not always successful) and it caught me totally by surprise. The story is intriguing, but that's not really what makes the movie. The acting is simply superb. Viggo Mortensen is fantastic as John Stall. It's a challenging role as you'll see in the film and he plays it perfectly. Ed Harris is, well, Ed Harris. I wouldn't say it's his best supporting role ever (I'm still partial to Apollo 13) but it's very good.

The real star of the movie is Maria Bello. She's an incredible actress and she seems to get better in every movie she does. I mean, come on. She even managed to not totally embarrass herself in Coyote Ugly. But this performance is the best that I've seen from her. Some credit has to go to writers John Wagner, Chris Locke, and Josh Olson for creating one of the best roles for a woman in forever. Maria Belle just takes it to the next level. When you watch this movie, you're seeing a real woman - not some blonde, mediocre actress whos only purpose is to look good. Don't get me wrong, she's a beautiful woman, I'd kill to look like her. But she's not afraid to look her worst. She's amazing through out the film, and there are a few scenes that are so real they made me uncomfortable. This is a must see movie. It's a little on the dark side, so be prepared for that going in. Keep an eye out for Maria Bello - she's one of the best you're ever gonna see ~ Tracy 12/08/05

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Official Site - A History of Violence