DVD: Eastern Promises: Tattoos For You
David Cronenberg definitely has something going on with violence; He's shocking and disturbing and maybe that's why his films (History of Violence, Spider, Naked Lunch, The Fly, Videodrome, and Scanners) are all so wonderful. Now out on DVD, with an Oscar nom for Viggo Mortenson in the leading role, Eastern Promises keeps the good times rolling. This gritty film follows the ruthless world of Nikolai, who's Russian angst and violent background have him indebted to London's largest Russian crime family. When Nikolai crosses paths with Anna (Naomi Watts), an innocent midwife who rides a Norton and has accidentally uncovered a brutal crime carried out by the family, Nikolai starts to unravel. It's a film that examines violence, servitude and modern day sex slavery in an unforgiving and unflinching style.
Howard Shore (Lord of the Rings, Departed & History of Violence) composed the film score and at first we were taken a little by surprise at the bravado of his composition. It's bold and proud with really strong strings and a sometimes-chilling brass sound. The melodies throughout are present and pungent. Combined with the dark Cronenberg feel, the score reminded us of Bernard Herrmann (which is a good thing - once you get accustomed to it). As the story unfolds, and the music establishes itself, you start to feel it's really, really tense and dark weight. An outstanding solo performance by violinist Nicola Benedetti helps establish the themes of despair and pain. A somber piece called "Slavery and Suffering" from the Red Army Choir really eases you into this often unseen version of London so that you can get the smell and the gravity of Nikolai’s world.
With a SHOCKING naked fight sequence that will have you reaching for a double Stolichnaya quicker than you can say " что только случилось ", Eastern Promises is well worth checking out.
Check out the trailer for Eastern Promises below:
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