Review: Blow Out
Penguin March 16th, 2008
Rating: 3/4 stars
Blow Out is about a sound recorder, Jack (John Travolta) who’s trying to unravel the murder of a presidential candidate.
Brian De Palma knits together an effective thriller filled with murder, conspiracy, and mystery. There’s a large emphasis on sound that’s used effectively both to tell the story and drive the story forward. There’s a particularly interesting shot where the camera spins while Jack runs around the room playing different reels. It’s one continuous take that’s borderline nauseating but works.
Looking back on the 25+ years since it was made, it’s interesting to see the dramatic progression of technology. We still use tapes, but not reels. Video and phones are now pervasive. It’d be interesting to see if you’d be able to do a modern remake that’s just as effective. Although dated, it doesn’t take you out of the film at all.
- Penguin
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