By Keith Walther | Rose Law Group Reporter
Having two wonderful acting talents like Ralph Fiennes and Juliette Binoche star together can only elevate the watchability of the film. Based on the latter part of Homer’s epic poem, “The Odyssey,” “The Return” is a historical drama that runs a bit slow but is carried by tremendous acting. One burning question viewers will have upon exiting the theater is when did Ralph Fiennes get so ripped?
Washing up unceremoniously on the shores of Ithaca, Odysseus (Ralph Fiennes) has been gone for 20 years, and his island is no longer the home he remembers. He finds much of his small kingdom to be poverty stricken with a number of interlopers looking to usurp his crown. Odysseus was thought to be dead during his mysterious absence, bringing many men to vie for his wife’s hand in marriage. Penelope (Juliette Binoche) has kept the vultures at bay for years, holding on to the hope that her husband would return.
Keeping his identity secret, Odysseus struggles to regain his strength and overcome the mental horrors of the war in Troy in order to find himself. As the pressure mounts for Penelope to make a decision on one of the many suitors, their son Telemachus (Charlie Plummer), whom Odysseus has never met, is in mortal danger from the increasing aggression. It’s up to Odysseus to find a way to win back his family and his home.
1996’s “The English Patient” is the last time these two incredible actors starred in a film together, earning them both an Oscar nomination. Juliette Binoche actually won the award for Best Supporting Actress. The enchanting French actress from “Chocolat” provides another impressive performance here with a powerful on-screen presence that is captivating, while showing extreme vulnerability bubbling beneath the surface. She beautifully portrays the stress her character is under while refusing to let doubt take hold and force her hand. The unspoken communication and chemistry between her and Fiennes practically leap off the screen with her telling facial expressions and eyes.
Ralph Fiennes is quite possibly the most underappreciated actor who has never won an Oscar with only two nominations, the other being for “Schindler’s List.” For “The Return,” Fiennes was forced to wear very little clothing and sometimes none at all, so he transformed his body into that of a hardened soldier. This is a pro’s pro who commits his entire being to be the most authentic character he can possibly be, and he achieves that here. Fiennes makes the audience feel his character’s tortured soul and self-loathing, which only increases that authenticity. On top of this, the English actor is always selfless, working hard to enhance the performances of his co-stars, constantly putting them in a position to succeed at his own detriment. This is his second Oscar worthy performance of the year, with his first being “Conclave” just several weeks ago.
Italian director Uberto Pasolini may not have a lot of experience helming films, but he did receive an Oscar nomination for producing “The Full Monty” in 1997. Homer’s “The Odyssey” is known for its fantastical and mythological elements, but Uberto focuses on a more realistic telling of Odysseus’ story. He successfully captures the look and feel of the setting by filming on location in Greece and Italy, apropos costuming, and ancient style set construction. The cinematography he employs is very well done with some difficult continuous shots and poignant closeups that capture unspoken communication.
While Uberto does well in making this a more intimate storytelling experience, he has trouble maintaining momentum to keep the flow moving at a steady pace. There is a lack of intensity in the scenes that bog down the pacing of the film, leading to a bit of ambivalence. When the limited action sequences do occur, they are very straightforward and fast. The sound effects are weak, and the complete lack of visual effects mute the impact of climactic scenes.
For those expecting a medieval action romp with the mythological beasts of Homer’s classic piece of literature, you will be sorely disappointed, this is not that kind of movie. “The Return” is a more realistic adaptation of a flawed character looking to restore himself and his home. If you appreciate good storytelling with outstanding performances from the leads, then give this film a chance.
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