
Plot: As the Mayan kingdom faces its decline, a young man is taken on a perilous journey to a world ruled by fear and oppression – Apocalypto
Director: Mel Gibson
Starring: Ruby Youngblood, Gerardo Taracena, Raoul Max Trujillo, Daloa Hernandez
Genre: Action/Historical/Drama
Released: January 2007
Sure, Mel Gibson has gone a little off the rails in his personal life lately, but the films he makes do tend to be both beautifully shot, well made and best of all he is always willing to take a risk and doesn’t pander to the audience, with Apocalypto most assuredly no different, you will certainly have to make the effort enjoy it.

Firstly, there is the use of Mayan, a language that’s all but died out, it was a risky choice but one I felt worked well, not only did it make sure the viewer paid attention to everything you saw on screen, but also adds a more authentic cultural feel to the piece that would otherwise be lost if English was used.
Secondly, the film’s choice of antagonist isn’t what you would expect from what is still a big-budget Hollywood picture. I went in expecting this to be about Europeans causing the end of the Mayan culture and sure the might show up eventually, but in reality, the film is about two tribes fighting for survival, one much bigger than the other, in a brutal and violent manner reminiscent of the treatment of the documentary makers in Cannibal Holocaust, though not quite at that level and at no point did it feel unwarranted or gratuitous, this was something that was part Mayan culture and as a result, it never looks out of place and helps the film rather than hindering it.

Given that all the cast were relative unknowns, the acting throughout felt natural, especially given that none of them was using their mother tongue to perform and being tasked with very difficult content to contend with. The stand out for me is that of Ruby Youngblood, who makes the character of Jaguar Paw someone you truly get behind and feel for, as he attempts to get back home and save his family.
You know from the very first sequence that you’re in for a visual treat when watching Apocalypto, every aspect is beautifully shot and from the dense jungles to the sprawling Mayan cities, you can’t help but want to explore more of this rich and vibrant culture that’s too often overlooked or mistreated by Hollywood.

There are very elements of the film that I could see as faults. Indeed, the only ones I could find were minor indeed, The first being the ending feeling slightly too short, I would have happily sat through another 20 minutes of finding out what happened after the rescue and the Europeans coming ashore. The second being the underdevelopment of the female characters, none of which felt like anything other than a device to further the plot.
All in all, sure there are a couple of flaws, but Gibson’s use of the camera is impressive and has managed to produce an intricate movie that brings a new culture to the big screen.
If you liked: The Green Inferno, Master and Commander, The Passion of the Christ
It was perfect the first time. I learn so much from you as well! Keep it up great post.
I watched this movie a long time ago but I remember it being good enough. I didn’t like the ending either so I believe I will need to watch it again to see how my tastes in movies have changed!
This film is a masterpiece it captures everything from that culture and I loved it even though I was scared.
Great review! This movie looks interesting. Will really consider watching this as the shots and graphics are really cool!
The film definitely seems to be very well shot. I haven’t watched it yet, but will soon do. Now that you have got me interested !!
i totally forgot about this movie. i remember really liking this when i saw it in the cinemas. mel gibson may be controversial but he’s a terrific filmmaker and actor.
I haven’t watched Apocalypto yet. I hope to check it out on weekends. So nice!
I LOVE This movie!! Not many films have I watched a second time around, but this one ive seen multiple times and could watch again! Soooo good!!
Mel Gibson is amazing at his craft. I was actually too afraid to watch this because I was afraid it would be too violent and realistic in the Mayan’s brutality. But I love your description of how well he did the city and jungle scenes. Maybe I can watch some PG-rated trailers, lol! I would love to see it for the sake of seeing those scenes.
I haven’t watch the film but always love the ones with something mysterious about the Maya and stuff.
Thanks for introducing I will watch this movie!
I love this movie! I watched this a long time ago with my family… I guess I need to rewatch this again and relive the moments…
Love,
Cha of Little Misadvencha
I have honestly not watch a good film in a LONG time is. I will definitely check out this one once I have a free moment!
I’ve seen this movie before and it was so intense! I should watch it again, one of the best 🙂
Lovely character analysis of this film! I’m adding this to my watch list since you did such a great review 👌