It's All About That Boat

I'm not feeling it for Darren Aronofsky's 'Noah' but I'm mightily impressed by his realization of the ark. Trailers up to now have left me squirming in my seat but this featurette gets under the skin, and I find myself wondering how Noah and his family went about building the craft, how the ark manages at sea, and what life aboard such a vessel might have been like.

Thinking about it, I'm curious how Aronofsky handles how Noah and his family feel about being the last people alive. This would be central to the story and, if audiences find that plot element satisfying, 'Noah' may score. If not, word of mouth could sink this film.

It's easy to be dismissive of an Aronofsky project when you first hear about them. Few would think you could make a film about a pro wrestler or ballet dancer that people would find entertaining, or stand up to critical examination, but 'The Wrestler' and 'Black Swan' accomplished just that and, all things considered, I'm more hopeful about 'Noah'.

If reviews stand up I'll check this out. Until then, loving this preview.

Appropriately, 'Noah' Gets Two Trailers

This is the U.S. cut and boy does it lay there. Lacks focus, takes itself too seriously, not much fun, no hook, has a quality best described as a droning thrum.



Here's the international edit and, as usual, it's better than the domestic version, but only by direct comparison. Hooks you up front, moves at a clip, incorporates just enough humor -- but still, it just doesn't sizzle.



Have to say, though, when Russell Crowe says, "I'm not alone," that's pretty good. I'll bet he took the gig when he read that in the screenplay. If the rest of the script is that sharp this will be a hot rental and be watched by millions year after year on TV.

Just one more thing. How seaworthy is a super long rectangular shaped boat? No keel to keep it upright, no hull that cuts through water. Wouldn't that just capsize or break into pieces in those giant waves? I would think it would capsize in calm water. (I know, Biblically correct and all, but that kind of detail takes me out of movies).

Bottom line: I want to see this because you never know what Darren Aronofsky will come up with. So, curiosity factor will play a role but not with the average theater-goer who doesn't know who Aronosfsky is (you'll notice his name isn't on the poster that came out yesterday. Crowe's name, yes, but not the director's).

I don't think this will scrape up much box office. Play on TV in the background on family holidays, maybe.