Mad Max: Fury Road
Movie Review with Johnny Fortuno
Where and with whom did you see the movie?
I watched the movie at Ward Consolidated Theatres with Kyle Kazumi, who is my friend and a dancer in my show.
Overall, what did you think?
Overall, I thought the movie was a nonstop roller coaster ride of the senses. You have a few spots in the movie to catch your breath, but then it’s a barrage of music, explosions, action, action and more action. There is a lot going on all the time. It’s one long race and, once it starts, it never stops until the end of the movie. When the movie was over, my friend and I looked at each other and just laughed. We both agreed that there was no way we could watch that movie twice in the same night! It was that intense. It was like the original Mad Max, but on steroids.
Without giving away the ending, what was one of your favorite scenes?
The opening scene of Mad Max standing by his famous car with the voices in his head; it was iconic.
On a scale of one to four stars, what would you rate this film?
★ ★ 1/2.
What did you think of the cinematography?
The cinematography was absolutely awesome. The landscapes and all the different angles that were shot were incredible, especially at the speed that everything seemed to be going. There is so much going on, and they captured all of it. It definitely has that dark, twisted-metal feel. Even in the color of the film it was definitely projected.
Was the message/theme clear?
I don’t think there was one cut-and dried message that they were trying to convey. It was more of an apocalyptictype movie with many different themes as undertones. There was the theme of trying to control the masses by using basic human needs, and woven into that were redemption and hope.
Did it remind you of any other works of film?
Yes it reminded me of the original Mad Max films, but everything was faster, bigger, louder and harder!
Who would you recommend this movie to?
I would recommend this film to anyone who is a fan of action movies and enjoys darker themes.
Did any of the actors stand out?
I went to see the movie because I am a fan of Tom Hardy, but I think Charlize Theron did a transformation as Furiosa and stood out the most to me. She seemed more like the main character and she had more lines, and actually the whole plot revolved around her. Tom Hardy was great as usual, but didn’t have much dialogue.
Did you identify with any of the characters?
No, I didn’t, although there are some characteristics and qualities here and there.
Did the soundtrack contribute significantly to the film?
Absolutely! The film wouldn’t have the same effect without it.
Would you buy this movie when it comes out on DVD?
I have to say I would not.
What’s your favorite movie snack?
Hot dog, for sure!
On a different note, what’s new with you?
Let’s see, so many things going on. I’ve been busy getting material ready for my summer concerts in Las Vegas with the Stamps Quartet. We are launching boy characters with my wife’s company, Storybook Hawaii. And with my show “Rock a Hula,” we are having our “kids free” summer promotion from July 1 to Sept. 30. Please come to the Royal Hawaiian Center and check us out!
