On M List of Movie Reviews
(For optimum viewing, adjust the zoom level of your browser to 125%.)
The Mosquito Coast (1986)
Rate:
7
Viewed:
4/04, 8/20
8/20:
I remembered for a long time that Harrison Ford said The Mosquito Coast was his favorite film.
For the role that's meant to go to Jack Nicholson who backed out because he wouldn't be able to watch Lakers games while in
Belize, Harrison Ford stretches himself to be real in the dramatic sense and thus succeeds. Hence, I'm willing
to say it's among five greatest performances of his career. There are many disillusioned, burned-out men who can relate to
his character.
Having extensive experience in this subject matter, River Phoenix may be in the film but is mostly overshadowed by
Harrison Ford. Hence, the movie is about the latter's character, Allie Fox, and his desire to create the most perfect Utopia that's away
from the polluted air and water and corruption. Unfortunately, he's a human being who's prone to ego.
Why I'm not favorable to The Mosquito Coast is the last thirty minutes. It's a weak finish. Things were going
so well in the middle when there was a budding community, but director Peter Weir had to wreck it. It's
just a stupid decision given how exhausting the movie has been to watch. By the way, it's the final film for Butterfly McQueen of
Gone with the Wind fame as she plays one of the churchgoers.
All in all, despite The Mosquito Coast falling apart during the final act, it should be seen for the sake of
Harrison Ford's riveting performance.