Last of the Mohicans (The Last Of The Mohicans (DVD))

Member Name: jane08

Product:	The Last Of The Mohicans (DVD)
Date:	11/07/08 (52 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Beautifully shot and acted with an amazing soundtrack

Disadvantages: None

Last of the Mohicans is a 1992 epic, directed by Michael Mann it was inspired by James Fenimore Coopers 1826 novel of the same name. The film was released to massive critical acclaim winning several awards, particularly for its score, editing and cinematography.

***Plot***
Set in mid 18th century America the story is primarily a historically set romance set amidst the backdrop of a brutal war. The British are fighting, with many American settlers, against the French. Hawkeye, played by Daniel Day Lewis, was raised as part of the Mohican Indians; His 'father', Chingachgook and brother Uncas are the last surviving members of this tribe. The three men become embroiled in a battle between Huron Indians, who are fighting with the French, and a group of English soldiers. The only English survivors of this battle are the Cora and Alice Munroe, two daughters of a British Colonel, and Major Duncan Heyward.

Duncan, being in love with Cora, has recently proposed and awaits her answer. The British party had been making their way to Fort William Henry, where Cora and Alice's father has requested them. With the aid of Hawkeye and his family the three begin their journey to the fort while encountering battle horrors and treachery.

***Spoilers ahead***
The main focus of the film is the developing romance between Cora and Hawkeye. The battles between the Indian tribes and the warring nations serve as an intense and exciting backdrop. There are other romance related plots developed also, the love that Duncan has for Cora delivers excellent tension between the three characters. There is also a subtle romance between Uncas and Alice which can easily be missed. There relationship is conveyed completely through facial expressions and actions with no dialogue.

The other major plot line is a revenge theme. It is revealed throughout the movie that Magua, the leader of a Huron tribe, desires the death of Col. Munroe and 'all his seed'. His motive being the murder of his own family many years previously. This device proves effective in adding danger and thrills to the romances.

***Characters***
Daniel Day Lewis gives an, as always, brilliant and believable performance as Hawkeye. He is the carrying force of the movie being effective as the romantic lead and the action hero. Madeline Stowe is wonderful as Cora, being protective of her young sister and opinionated on the morality of the war. Wes Studi is believably horrid as Magua, he speaks mainly in a native tongue which is subtitled for the viewer. Russell Means and Eric Schweig similarly communicate through subtitles for the majority of the film. Jodhi May has very few lines throughout the film but manages to be a huge presence throughout. Her performance is incredibly memorable, particularly in the unforgettable final scenes.

***Landscapes***
Filmed in western north Carolina, Last of the Mohicans has some of the most visually beautiful scenery you can imagine. The locations were captured brilliantly by Mann and conveyed an epic and gorgeous backdrop to the film.

***Soundtrack***
The soundtrack to Last of the Mohicans is one of the best ever recorded for film. My favourite pieces being 'The Kiss' and Clannads 'I will find you'. If you're a fan of the film or simply, like me, love movie soundtracks then you should definitely try this one. You won't be disappointed.


***Final Sequence*** SPOILERS

The final 20 minutes of Last of the Mohicans is one of my absolute favourite sequences ever committed to film. Throughout the finale no words are spoken, we see the characters pursuing Magua in a hope of rescuing Alice. The music, landscapes and performances combine to create one of the most tense and moving scenes I've ever seen. It is particularly Jodhi May's performance that I have to commend. The moment when she stands on top of the cliff edge, having watched Uncas's failed rescue attempt and is offered Magua's hand or death, remains with me to this day. It is a scene that will make me cry every time I watch it. Michael Mann's direction is stunning and definitely worthy of praise.

***Battle Scenes***
Just a quick warning to anyone who isn't to fond of gory battle scenes, this film has plenty. There are several scalpings and other gruesome deaths that are very realistically produced.

Summary: A historical romance set in 18th century America