In the lead-up to Christopher Nolan's highly anticipated film, The Odyssey, it's worth taking a step back and revisiting a forgotten gem in Matt Damon's filmography. While his work in the Bourne franchise, Contagion, and The Martian are all well-deserved accolades, there's one film that often gets overlooked: The Great Wall. This 2016 fantasy epic, directed by Zhang Yimou, offers a unique blend of mythical adventure and blockbuster spectacle.
What makes The Great Wall stand out is its bold premise. Imagine a world where European mercenaries, played by Damon and Pedro Pascal, find themselves entangled in a centuries-old war against alien creatures, known as Taotie, alongside China's elite defenders. It's a wild concept, but Zhang's visual prowess transforms it into a visually stunning and extravagant fantasy experience.
Damon's character, Garin, embodies an age-old archetype of a legendary hero. His journey from a mercenary driven by survival and profit to someone who embraces a larger cause is a familiar yet captivating arc. Damon's performance, grounded and confident, showcases his ability to carry such a mythical role with ease.
One of the film's highlights is the chemistry between Damon and Pascal. Their dynamic as fellow mercenaries, trading witty banter, adds a layer of charm to the film. It's a reminder of how Pascal's career has evolved since, becoming one of Hollywood's leading men. Their effortless interplay is a joy to watch.
Zhang Yimou's visual style is a key strength of The Great Wall. Known for his use of extreme color, movement, and composition, Zhang elevates the film's action sequences into something operatic. Instead of chaotic battles, he presents a visually cohesive and graceful spectacle. The Nameless Order, a secretive military organization, performs their attacks with acrobatic precision, creating a unique and captivating aesthetic.
The film's most memorable scene involves the Crane Corps, an all-female unit, diving off the Great Wall with blue bungee tethers. It's a testament to Zhang's commitment to the fantasy genre, trusting that his visual storytelling can sell even the most outrageous concepts. This scene, in particular, showcases his ability to create exhilarating moments without relying on typical blockbuster tropes.
Despite initial controversies surrounding its casting and box office performance, The Great Wall has aged gracefully. It serves as a reminder of a time when blockbuster filmmaking embraced singular visions, even if they didn't always meet commercial expectations. With The Odyssey on the horizon, it's a perfect opportunity to appreciate Damon's range and revisit this underrated fantasy adventure.
In my opinion, The Great Wall is a hidden gem that deserves a second chance. It offers a unique blend of fantasy, action, and visual splendor. So, before embarking on Damon's mythical journey in The Odyssey, take a moment to appreciate the fantasy adventure that showcased his ability to carry an entire myth with conviction.
