‘By Any Means’ Review: Mark Wahlberg Teaches the Virtues of Violence in Elegance Bratton’s Bluntly Drawn Historical Thriller
In Peter Farrelly’s “Green Book,” Viggo Mortensen’s driver famously introduces Mahersahala Ali’s concert pianist to fried chicken. The white man, an expert, proves his cultural bona fides to the Black protagonist, the student. The pair of outsiders share a moment of bonding, and
The review of "By Any Means" highlights Mark Wahlberg's performance in Elegance Bratton's historical thriller, but what's striking is the contrast with the tone of "Green Book," another film that explored themes of cultural exchange and bonding between people from different backgrounds. While "Green Book" used a lighthearted moment over fried chicken to illustrate the connection between its leads, "By Any Means" seems to take a much darker approach, emphasizing the virtues of violence.
This dichotomy is interesting in the context of current trends in period dramas and historical thrillers, which often strive to balance entertainment with nuanced explorations of social issues. The fact that "By Any Means" leans into violence as a means of storytelling suggests that Bratton is aiming to create a visceral experience for viewers, one that doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of the past. For audiences interested in style and cultural commentary, it's worth considering how the film's aesthetic and narrative choices contribute to its overall impact.
As the film industry continues to grapple with issues of representation and historical accuracy, "By Any Means" is likely to spark conversations about the role of violence in storytelling and the importance of thoughtful, considered portrayals of the past. To watch next: how will audiences and critics respond to the film's unflinching depiction of violence, and what implications might this have for future projects from Bratton and Wahlberg? Will "By Any Means" inspire a new wave of historical thrillers that prioritize grit and realism, or will it stand out as a singular example of a bold, uncompromising vision?
Originally reported by variety.com. StyleNews adds analysis for culture, style & media readers.