NEW YORK – The match up of Idris Elba and a rogue lion makes “Beast” (Universal) a tense thriller. Yet, while grown-ups will likely appreciate the pleasant anxiety inspired by this safari-themed tale, its emotional content is sketchy while the bloodletting integral to its plot puts the film out-of-bounds for youngsters.
Elba plays New York-based physician Dr. Nate Samuels, the recently widowed father of two teen daughters, Meredith (Iyana Halley) and Norah (Leah Jeffries). Partly in hopes of repairing his strained relationship with the girls, Nate has arranged a visit to his wife’s hometown in South Africa where Martin Battles (Sharlto Copley), an old family friend, serves as a game reserve manager.
The quartet’s initially enjoyable excursion into the wilderness suddenly turns perilous, however, when they run afoul of the predator from whom the movie takes its title. He’s out for revenge on humans after the cruel slaughter of his pride by poachers, and sufficiently enraged to behave in a way that surprises – and baffles – experienced Martin.
Screenwriter Ryan Engle and director Baltasar Kormákur effectively maintain the suspense, though the relentlessness of Nate’s terrifying adversary occasionally strains credulity. But the themes of family reconciliation, cooperation in the face of danger and self-sacrificing heroism underlying the action are only weakly advanced.
So, there’s more opportunity to look apprehensively over the main characters’ shoulders than to peer curiously into their souls.
Not for fainthearted viewers of any age, “Beast” leaves little to the imagination where the effects of being mauled by a powerful animal are concerned. Together with some peppery dialogue, such graphic images make the film strictly adult fare.
Look for: A positive outlook on family life and skillfully delivered excitement.
Look out for: Much gory animal violence, gruesome sights, a handful of profanities, a couple of milder oaths, fleeting roughlanguage, about a half-dozen crude terms and brief crass talk.
The Catholic Moviegoer’s guidance is M – suitable for mature viewers. The Motion Picture Association rating is R – restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian.
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