Chopper
Plot
Here is the plot summary for the movie "Chopper": "Mark 'Chopper' Read was a household name in Australia during the 1970s and 1980s. This notorious criminal, known for his brutal behavior and flamboyant style, left an indelible mark on the country's crime scene. Eric Bana brings this larger-than-life figure to life in Chopper, a biographical drama that chronicles Read's turbulent years of crime, violence, and self-discovery. The film opens with a young Mark Read, played by Eric Bana as a child (in a stunning performance), who is sent away from home due to his constant troublemaking. This sets the tone for his future antics, as Chopper grows up to become a small-time criminal involved in petty theft and vandalism. However, it's not until he commits a string of violent robberies that his reputation begins to spread. As Chopper's infamy grows, so does his ego. He becomes known for his striking red hair (hence the nickname), flamboyant outfits, and his penchant for violence. The film follows Chopper as he embarks on a series of crimes, including bank robberies and armed hold-ups, which earn him the attention of police and fellow criminals alike. Despite his notoriety, Chopper remains a charismatic figure, with a magnetic charm that draws people to him. His fascination with violence and crime is matched only by his interest in prostitutes and drugs, leading to a life of self-destructive excess. Throughout the film, Bana's performance is mesmerizing, capturing the essence of Chopper's larger-than-life personality. The supporting cast, including Vince Colosimo as Chopper's nemesis, Detective Niven, adds depth and nuance to the story. As the years pass, Chopper's crimes become more brazen, leading to a series of confrontations with the law. The film builds towards a climactic showdown between Chopper and his pursuers, which will leave viewers on the edge of their seats. Chopper is a gripping and unflinching portrayal of one of Australia's most infamous criminals. With its raw energy, witty dialogue, and Eric Bana's stunning performance, this film is an unforgettable ride into the world of crime and punishment."
Reviews
Quinn
This is unequivocally Eric Bana's finest performance, and I don't even feel the need to qualify it. While Andrew Dominik's directorial style was still somewhat raw, perhaps a bit too eager with the gratuitous slow-motion shots, the film effectively captured the violence and the protagonist's duplicitous moral compass. A compelling true story, where the sheer depravity of the actions and the looming question of what he'll do next create palpable dramatic tension, especially considering he's a complete madman. ★★★
Layla
Brutal!
Amira
This is the Eric Bana I have in my mind, to the point that I can't accept him in the various romantic movies he did later.
Sky
In the slammer, he carves a reputation with blades; brotherhood turns to betrayal, leaving bodies riddled with holes. Love blooms amidst clumsy brawls in brothels, and house calls end with the roar of a revolver. He bares all – stories and more – in bars and his home is an arsenal tended by a pregnant lover. A shotgun blast to the head, followed by a nursery rhyme. Meet Melbourne's legendary street butcher, an almost illiterate author who still schools you intellectuals. A snapshot of a best-selling Australian jailhouse writer. This might just be Eric Bana at the peak of his acting prowess. And for Dominic West's debut? Utter madness and pure fun. Not bad at all.
Myla
Garbage director, garbage rating. Couldn't agree more.
Samantha
The true story of Mark "Chopper" Read is a darkly comedic tale of a man who turned his life into a bloodbath spectacle, making crime art out of his own chaos. It's like watching a modern-day performance artiste of violence, where every slice of life feels like a performance.
