Jacob’s Ladder (1990)

Jacob’s Ladder (1990)A must-see film! I loved it! But I found these reviews less enthusiastic:

1) “Demanding and confusing film that on the whole pursues a sensitive, disturbing, complex and interesting theme in terms of content, but remains relatively dry and boring in terms of direction. Here, I would definitely have liked more pizzazz, surprise and a better film score, so that the film remains captivating and engaging right to the end, like for example Arlington Road (1999) or The X Files – Fight the Future (1998).” 2) “For anyone who likes to look for a drama with a historical and religious background, Jacob’s Ladder is definitely recommendable and complex (8 out of 10 stars). Those who are realists or atheists, or who expect brutal action and gripping suspense, should pass, as they will find the film boring and nonsensical (5 out of 10 stars).” 3) “Personally, I found the subject interesting and seriously wondered if the army had used this aggression-altering drug (in Vietnam). But in the end, we don’t find out. On the other hand, the final surprise is unpredictable.” 4) “All in all, it’s not an easy film and I may watch it more carefully later. But for now, it doesn’t make me want to see it again right away.”

So… yes, it’s definitely not a simple film for a relaxed end to the day. It’s very upsetting, and there are several levels of time. But if you’re prepared to immerse yourself in it and study the whole story, the film is highly recommendable and indeed demanding, as well as being complex. As you will have realised, Jacob’s Ladder is not for everyone. There are those who prefer its copies, who don’t find the film captivating, exciting or surprising, far from it. And they even wonder why it left any traces at all! Admittedly, it could have been better exploited, but in my view it loses none of its interest. A very good, oppressive and partly dark film, with the Vietnam War in the background.

Tim Robbins plays it to perfection once again. I can’t forget him in The Shawshank Redemption (1995), Mystic River (2003) and Thanks for Sharing (2012), which I also love. You could even add Howard The Duck (1986) just for fun!As for director Adrian Lyne, he’s gone off the beaten track a bit, this time talking about adultery. No Fatal Attraction (1987), Indecent Proposal (1993) or Unfaithful (2002). No sexual story à la 9 1/2 weeks (1986) or Lolita (1997) either. It makes you wonder what kind of problems this director really has. I hope for his sake that he just knows how to tell stories really well and that not everything is taken from his own experience!

Danny Aiello and Elizabeth Peña are also part of the cast. Never has the bridge between madness and reality been so short, and never have we been disgusted by things that aren’t necessarily bloody. You don’t want to miss out on the experience at the end, so I can’t say too much without spoiling. In any case, I was taken by the guts and I think you too should take some time for yourself after the film.

My Rating