The Beach

by Royce D'Orazio

Let me start by saying that I am in no way an advocate of Leo or the majority of his films.  In fact, I was not even entirely  interested in seeing The Beach! However, I am pleased to say that I took the chance.  

Directed by Danny Boyle, (Trainspotting), and based on the novel by Alex Garland, The Beach brings  the viewer into the journey of Richard (DiCaprio), a young man searching for a lost island of paradise.  Much to his surprise, a group of people had been living on the island for several years.  Nonetheless, Richard manages to gain acceptance into this estranged colony, and his lifestyle quickly changes.

Boyle successfully takes us through the emotional degradation and restoration of DiCaprio's character, while utilizing unconventional  experimental techniques.  The result is a wonderful journey in which reality, paradise, and illusion intertwine.  DiCaprio's performance was electrifying and quite contrary to my expectations.  Don't be misled, for this film is far from anything you would expect. It carries an objective, and it also makes a statement.  This is one of a few movies currently in theaters that are worth both your time and money.