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A case of the good, the bad and “The Grey”

“The Grey” is an intense and nail-biting film that portrays the struggle between man and wild and the internal struggles of being human.

Directed by Joe Carnahan, “The Grey” starts off with a bang when seven members of an oil- drilling team survive a horrendous plane crash that leaves them stranded in the harsh environment of the Alaskan wilderness. While facing the cold, barren landscape, the team learns the hard way that they are being hunted by a pack of wolves. The men are slowly picked off as the team struggles to survive and deal with their own internal conflicts.

Ottoway, played by Liam Neeson, becomes the self-proclaimed leader of the group and begins to lead the group in what they hope is the direction out of the wolf pack’s territory. As the dwindling number of survivors struggles to navigate the snowy terrain and defend themselves from the wolves, flashbacks involving Ottoway’s wife introduce yet another struggle he must overcome to survive.

The overall visual effects are mediocre at times. The wolves come across as completely realistic at times but often appear to be the product of lackluster CGI. The camera angles do not work to portray the action adequately during some scenes, but the harsh conditions of the terrain are captured effectively and beautifully more often than not.

A talented supporting cast aids the film and complements Neeson’s performance.

Frank Grillo, Dermot Mulroney, Dallas Roberts, Ben Bray, James Badge Dale and Nonso Anozie nearly perfect the rough characters they are meant to portray.

The ending, including a scene after the credits, was slightly disappointing.

The powerful action sequences and depth given through philosophical moments prevail over the unsatisfactory ending.

“The Grey” is certainly one of the must-see films of the month that is guaranteed to put viewers on the edge of the seat and leave patrons thinking about their own internal struggles.

“The Grey” is rated ‘R’ for violence/disturbing content including bloody images and pervasive language.