In a more graphic depiction of life in the middle ages, F+B is Paul Verhoeven's answer to over-romanticized medieval films. Gruesome deaths, severed body parts, rape and plague all play their roles in the film. The atmosphere is almost palpable as a ruthless mercenary (Rutger Hauer) and his uncouth gang of ruffians plots reparation after being tricked out of the spoils of war. Despite infamous BTS drama between Verhoeven and Hauer, performances remain genuine. The constant strife of the characters' moral duality is just as fascinating as the character of Agnes (Jennifer Jason Leigh) and her conflicted allegiance. An epic score by Basil Poledouris is a highlight, but some noticeable plot holes and questionable accents knock this one down a peg.
3½ religious misinterpretations out of 5
2 comments:
I'm surprised I've not discovered this already. It sounds great.
I'm a fan of both Rutger and Jennifer Jason Leigh (they were in The Hitcher a year later, too).
Verhoven is hit and miss for me, but his hits tend to be very memorable.
I'm happy you mentioned Poledouris' score.
It really is a hidden gem. :D
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