Movie Review: Once Upon a Time in America

[akula]

Once upon a time and every so often there comes a production which makes you think about the last production you're ever going to see.

Sergio Leone's (director;s cut) masterpiece is just one such a movie which begs the viewer to redefine her understanding of duty and friendship.

Often compared to the Godfather, I think both the two movies are unique in that they explore different kinds of relationships from similar perspectives to draw similar conclusions. Having watched the movie, I think it's the little differences which make these movies equally unforgettable.

Whilst I haven't found the setting to be much memorable, Leone's exploration of longing may be the most attractive feature of the movie much reminiscent of the Shawshank Redemption. Particularly where Max draws Debra away from Noodles, and then by Max seeking redemption.

For anybody interested in the nature of friendships, I think that you'll find this a most striking walk down the memory lane.