Roses Have Thoughts

As with many Verhoeven films, Flesh+Blood, is a film teetering on the edge of brilliance and absurdity, a characteristic dichotomy that often defines Verhoeven’s work. Set against the backdrop of medieval Europe, the film follows a band of mercenaries led by the charismatic Martin (Rutger Hauer), as they navigate treachery, betrayal, and lust in a world ravaged by war and plague.

Verhoeven’s directorial prowess is unmistakable, evident in the film’s visceral and gritty portrayal of a merciless era. The production design is impeccable, transporting viewers to a time where brutality and survival go hand in hand. The costumes, sets, and cinematography evoke a palpable sense of decay and desperation, immersing audiences in the grim realities of medieval life.

At the film’s core lies a tale of power, greed, and moral ambiguity, themes that Verhoeven explores with his signature blend of cynicism and dark humour. Rutger Hauer delivers a commanding performance as Martin, a complex anti-hero whose actions blur the line between righteousness and depravity. His chemistry with Jennifer Jason Leigh, who portrays the spirited Agnes, adds depth to their tumultuous relationship, serving as a poignant commentary on love and loyalty amidst chaos.

However, despite its ambitious scope and compelling characters, “Flesh+Blood” falters in its narrative execution. Verhoeven’s penchant for shock value occasionally overshadows the film’s thematic resonance, resulting in gratuitous violence and explicit content that feels more sensationalized than substantive. The pacing, too, suffers from unevenness, with moments of intense action juxtaposed with languid exposition, disrupting the film’s momentum and coherence.

Failing the Bechdel test, the film’s treatment of female characters is problematic, with women often reduced to mere objects of desire or victimization. While Agnes initially appears as a strong-willed protagonist, her agency is ultimately overshadowed by the male characters’ conflicting agendas, relegating her to a passive role in the narrative and leaving her overall motives difficult to determine.

In conclusion, “Flesh+Blood” is a flawed yet fascinating exploration of human nature in the face of adversity. Verhoeven’s bold vision and Hauer’s magnetic performance elevate the film above its shortcomings, offering moments of brilliance amidst the chaos. However, its excessive violence and uneven storytelling prevent it from reaching its full potential, ultimately leaving viewers with a sense of ambivalence rather than satisfaction.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J-7H2TYMV0w

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