Despite a somewhat boring and almost ridiculous first half hour, it is clear that Hidalgo makes us discover various sensations. First, landscapes beautifully framed by Joe Johnston, much more inspired than on Jurassic Park 3 or Jumanji.
The film also makes us discover the differences between peoples of two continents. But the very essence of the film resides in this formidable friendship which unites a man and his horse. As for the actors, they are all just playing without overdoing it.
Viggo Mortensen portrays a cowboy who is only a shadow of himself, but who will find his soul in the middle of the desert. The good surprise comes from the performance of Omar Sharif, very convincing as an Arab sheikh, but above all human. The other actors and actresses invest themselves in a film in which they obviously believe.
There are obviously several messages in this film. The xenophobia towards each other remains evident although filmed with accuracy and sufficiency. The film is not perfect, there are a few awkwardnesses, but in the end, Hidalgo remains a superb human and animal adventure, and the horses are the only real stars of this welcome adventure film in a time of mistrust towards our neighbors. 8/10.
The film also makes us discover the differences between peoples of two continents. But the very essence of the film resides in this formidable friendship which unites a man and his horse. As for the actors, they are all just playing without overdoing it.
Viggo Mortensen portrays a cowboy who is only a shadow of himself, but who will find his soul in the middle of the desert. The good surprise comes from the performance of Omar Sharif, very convincing as an Arab sheikh, but above all human. The other actors and actresses invest themselves in a film in which they obviously believe.
There are obviously several messages in this film. The xenophobia towards each other remains evident although filmed with accuracy and sufficiency. The film is not perfect, there are a few awkwardnesses, but in the end, Hidalgo remains a superb human and animal adventure, and the horses are the only real stars of this welcome adventure film in a time of mistrust towards our neighbors. 8/10.