Tony Gilroy’s first feature as director since 2012 premiered at the New York Film Festival with Pedro Pascal drawing sharply divided reviews for his performance as a gifted cellist.
Tony Gilroy returns to directing with his latest film Behemoth! which has drawn both praise and criticism from critics. The movie marks Gilroy’s first feature as director since The Bourne Legacy in 2012 and it features music composed by nine prominent composers who have banded together under the name The Behemoth! Collective.
The story centers on Alex Serian who is portrayed by Pedro Pascal and returns to Los Angeles after nearly two decades on the road. Alex is haunted by memories of Nadia who is a musician he had a brief but intense relationship with six years prior to the film’s present-day story.
The film’s narrative structure is complex and non-linear with flashbacks that some critics found confusing or unnecessary according to The Guardian. Despite its ambitious scope the movie struggles to tie together its various storylines and emotional beats.
Some critics noted that Pascal’s performance is a highlight of the film even though his character lacks strong motivation or emotional depth.
Pascal brings authenticity to the role by playing cello himself after learning the instrument for the film according to a report from Martin Cid Magazine. The film’s director and writer Tony Gilroy has a history of crafting complex narratives as seen in his work on the Bourne films and Andor.
Despite its flaws Behemoth! is praised for its musical elements and Pascal’s performance which some critics believe marks a breakthrough for the actor according to Yahoo News. The film explores themes of artistic identity and emotional detachment through Alex’s journey.
Supporting actors like Olivia Wilde and Eva Victor add depth to the story though some critics found their roles underdeveloped. The film’s structure mirrors its protagonist’s emotional state with musical cues triggering flashbacks that reveal key parts of Alex’s past.
Some critics argue that the film’s pacing and tone are inconsistent making it difficult for audiences to connect with the story. Behemoth! premiered at the New York Film Festival and is set to release in Australia on December 3 with releases in the US and UK on December 4.
The movie is a departure from Gilroy’s previous work by focusing more on character study than action or political thriller elements. Despite its mixed reviews Behemoth! stands out for its musical score and Pascal’s performance as a lead character.
The film also features a strong supporting cast including Will Arnett and Kaya Ralls as well as Margarita Levieva.
Critics have noted that while Pascal’s role is a step forward for him it still lacks the emotional resonance needed to fully engage viewers. The film’s exploration of Alex’s past and his relationships with women is central to its themes though some critics found it underdeveloped.
The movie’s musical cues are not just background elements but act as narrative devices that guide the audience through Alex’s memories. Although it received mixed reviews Behemoth! is seen by some as a strong showcase for Pedro Pascal.
The film’s release schedule includes its New York Film Festival premiere before its wider theatrical release. Alex Serian is a character shaped by his early musical success and the emotional distance he maintains from others.
Pascal’s portrayal of Alex is described as nuanced and emotionally restrained which some critics believe fits the character well. The film’s structure is intentionally complex and uses a non-linear timeline to reflect the protagonist’s inner turmoil.
Despite its structural challenges Behemoth! is praised by some critics for its visual and musical storytelling. The movie’s emotional core lies in Alex’s struggle to commit to relationships and his search for meaning in his artistic life.
Some critics felt that the film’s pacing was slow and its tone ponderous which detracted from its emotional impact. The film’s musical score is a standout feature that brings together nine well-known composers in a collective effort.
Alex’s journey through memory and music reflects the artist’s internal conflict between ambition and emotional connection. Despite its flaws Behemoth! offers a cinematic experience that blends music with narrative complexity.
The film’s reception highlights the challenge of balancing artistic ambition with audience engagement. Some critics see Pedro Pascal’s performance as a major strength in an otherwise uneven film.
Behemoth! is a deeply personal exploration of artistic identity and emotional detachment with Pascal at its center. Gilroy’s film also serves as a tribute to the studio musicians who perform the scores heard throughout movies and television.
IMAGE: Source Pedro Pascal Author Gage Skidmore from Peoria, AZ, United States of America CC2