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Riba (1997) Online

Riba (1997) Online
Original Title :
The Edge
Genre :
Movie / Action / Adventure / Drama / Thriller
Year :
1997
Directror :
Lee Tamahori
Cast :
Anthony Hopkins,Alec Baldwin,Elle Macpherson
Writer :
David Mamet
Type :
Movie
Time :
1h 57min
Rating :
6.9/10

An intellectual billionaire and two lesser men struggle to band together and survive after getting stranded in the Alaskan wilderness with a blood-thirsty Kodiak Bear hunting them down.

Riba (1997) Online

A model has her rich, much older husband come with her to a photo shoot. But when their plane crashes in the middle of nowhere, a strong mind game erupts between the clever husband and the jealous young photographer as they try to get back to civilization.
Complete credited cast:
Anthony Hopkins Anthony Hopkins - Charles Morse
Alec Baldwin Alec Baldwin - Robert Green
Elle Macpherson Elle Macpherson - Mickey Morse
Harold Perrineau Harold Perrineau - Stephen
Bart the Bear Bart the Bear - The Bear
L.Q. Jones L.Q. Jones - Styles
Kathleen Wilhoite Kathleen Wilhoite - Ginny
David Lindstedt David Lindstedt - James
Mark Kiely Mark Kiely - Mechanic
Eli Gabay Eli Gabay - Jet Pilot
Larry Musser Larry Musser - Amphibian Pilot
Brian Arnold Brian Arnold - Reporter
Bob Boyd Bob Boyd - Reporter
Kelsa Kinsly Kelsa Kinsly - Reporter
Gordon Tootoosis Gordon Tootoosis - Jack Hawk

Sir Anthony Hopkins had a brush with death during filming in Alberta. He was taking painkillers for a neck problem. He fell in a river, and didn't feel how cold he was becoming, until he began to suffer from hypothermia. He had to be rushed to the hospital to be treated.

Sir Anthony Hopkins was suffering from a slipped disc throughout filming, and incorporated the pain he felt from this into his performance.

This film inspired a highly successful television reality show of the same name in Brazil, where participants were selected from normal people, including executives, graduates, and clerks, left in a wild and deserted area of Brazilian landscape, and had to survive using techniques similar to the ones mentioned by Sir Anthony Hopkins' character.

The de Havilland Canada DHC-2 Beaver, used in this film, is the same one used in Six Days Seven Nights (1998). It crashed in both movies.

"Bookworm" was considered as a title for this film, other titles considered were; "Wild", "Wilder", "The Wild", "Into the Wild", "Wilderness Now", "Deadhunt", "Deadfall", "Edge", "On the Edge", "Bloody Betrayal", and "The Bear Roared".

This was the second film, in which Sir Anthony Hopkins worked, that also featured Bart the Bear. The other being Sügislegendid (1994).

Throughout the course of this movie, Alec Baldwin says the word "Charles", which was the first name of Sir Anthony Hopkins' character, at least eighty-seven times.

The knife that Charles Morse (Sir Anthony Hopkins) carried in the film, was made by Brian Lyttle. The blade length was 3 3/4th inches, with mammoth ivory scales.

The watch Mickey (Elle Macpherson) gave Robert (Alec Baldwin), is an Omega Seamaster Chronograph Ref# 2296, the chronograph version of the James Bond watch.

The rifle they find in the house is a Winchester Model 1886 45-70.

One of Bart the Bear's final acting roles, before his death on May 10, 2000, at the age of twenty-three.

Robert De Niro and Dustin Hoffman were considered for the role of Charles Morse.

Ray Liotta, Richard Gere and John Travolta were considered for the role of Robert Green.

Just before the end credits start rolling, there is a caption that reads: "Twentieth Century Fox and the Producers wish to thank Bart the Bart and his trainer Doug Seus, for their contributions to this film."

The bear has roughly, 4 minutes and 37 seconds of screentime.

Third Alec Baldwin film composed by Jerry Goldsmith after Malice (1993) and The Shadow (1994).

After reaching Jack Hawk's (Gordon Tootoosis') empty cabin, and after convincing Morse (Sir Anthony Hopkins) to fly further to Big Bass Lake in search of Hawk, Green (Alec Baldwin) exclaims elatedly, "There's the spirit that beat the Japanese!" Alec Baldwin played Lieutenant Colonel James Doolittle, who planned and led the counter-strike against the Japanese in Pearl Harbor (2001).

The red float plane, in which they crash, is a de Havilland Canada DHC-2 Beaver.

The bear has 4 minutes of screentime.

Michael Caine turned down the role of Charles Morse. Curiously, Harold Perrineau worked with Caine in Blood and Wine (1996).

Anthony Hopkins and veteran character-actor L.Q. Jones (as the old man who awkwardly and unsuccessfully pitches Charles the vacation spot idea) worked together again in The Mask Of Zorro (1998). Both have remained good friends.


User reviews

Anayajurus

Anayajurus

Boy, here's an intense film, a survival-in-the-wilderness adventure/thriller starring the unlikely duo of Anthony Hopkins and Alec Baldwin. It's not hard to guess who's the villain, in addition to a man-eating bear who stalks the two of them after their plane crashes in the woods of Alaska.

The sophistication of Hopkins, playing an extremely smart man, battling the crude Baldwin, who is insanely jealous of Hopkins' possessions, including his gorgeous wife (Elle McPherson), is intriguing to watch. So is the great scenery and best-of-all, a great action story that has you focused intently for the full two hours.

A human characteristic so often ignored in films the past half century is put on display here: compassionate forgiveness. Seeing forgiveness demonstrated instead of revenge is almost shocking to see. Kudos to the filmmakers, too, for not going overboard on the brutality in this adventure.
Reighbyra

Reighbyra

I first saw this movie in 97 when it first came out.I had barely heard of Baldwin,Hopkins or Perrineau.It turned out to be one of those movies I sat on the "edge" of my seat and was stunned by the ending.I sat there,mouth agape.I found I had a deep respect for all three actors.This movie,in every discernible way,is a masterpiece.The cinematography is breathtaking.The musical score is one of the most beautiful themes I have ever heard.The plot is smooth and the acting superb.I had heard of Baldwin but had not thought he was a great actor until seeing The Edge.Hopkins has made some great movies but this one..well it my personal favorite.The subtleties are numerous,the suspense captivating and the message is profound.The bear is without a doubt frightening and primal.This movie evoked emotions in me that were also primal.And the ending? It is the best ending to any movie I have ever seen.Perhaps you might have to appreciate the complexities of human nature as well as the action sequences in The Edge to get the most out of the viewing experience.It truly is the best of both worlds.
allegro

allegro

"The Edge" is a terrific movie, not just as an action movie but as whole. I went to see this film because I thought it looked interesting, my expectations were shattered, this is a well written, well acted, well directed thriller. Anthony Hopkins as always turns in a great performance but the big suprise is Alec Baldwin who did just as well. This film has some of the best dialogue ever written for a movie of this type, and the action scenes are clever and blazingly paced. This is a terrific movie.
Milleynti

Milleynti

I had low expectations going into this movie, but after about ten minutes I was hooked. The cinematography is lush, the music is warm and hearty and the script is fresh and furious. At times, the film is slow, and it is during these moments that you realize the depth and emotion injected into these characters via Mamet's crystal-clear and poignant dialogue. It touches on primal fears (territory, survival, fear, shame, love and jealousy) and it delivers moral commentary on all of the above. Did I also mention that this movie is a thriller too? Hopkins is at his best as the calm and thoughtful Charles Morse, billionaire and bored with his ivory tower lifestyle. His counterpart, Mr. Baldwin is a slimy and petty fashion photographer, Bob Green. The interaction between the two shows a middle-ground that is brilliant in contrast. Hopkins is a father figure to Baldwin's brash young frenzied Bob. The competition between the two to survive, and ultimately return to civilization (and Charles' wife), sets the stage for a complex and thoughful character drama. Bart the Bear is a star indeed, and while this movie is marketed for having "Jaws with Claws," there is SO much more depth and detail to this movie. This is easily in my top 10 films of all time. It connected with me and I hope you enjoy it too. 10 out of 10!

Best Line: CHARLES: "I have always wanted to do something that was... that was unequivocal"
Mustard Forgotten

Mustard Forgotten

Anthony Hopkins is one of my favorite actors, so I had to see this film. Sure enough, I wasn't disappointed. Although the film got mixed reviews (and I could understand why, in a way), I was able to enjoy the experience of watching it. The cinematography was stunning. For that alone I recommend this film. The set-up was good, and the tension between the two main characters kept things lively.

Most of all, however, I love this type of story- out in the elements, man vs. nature, survival, etc. I like seeing what happens when people are put in a situation where they discover the value of life. By slaying the bear (symbolic of one's greatest fears in life), the Hopkins character found his true heart. I was moved by the transformation he underwent, and the compassion he showed to those who had it in for him. I identified with this; I hoped that I could be as magnanamous. I also thought about what the "bear" was in my life, and if I would have the courage to face it and do battle.
Budar

Budar

It's exceedingly easy to see how some people might not like this film. The most frequent reason in my opinion is that some just don't 'get it'. While busy focusing on pointing out rather trivial and nit-picky things, they are so far off the central point and weight of what the film is truly offering that the most rewarding aspects are lost on them.

Firstly, a very interesting and off center look into survival in the wilderness. Unconventional in the way that any alternate -in what I would consider "Hollywood"- version of this film would feature mostly everything taking place in that exotic cabin where this menacing digital bear(s) cuts the power and kills people off one by one because they left food out. Instead we are taken deep into the wilderness for real, with no comfort or near-by home base to return to. Decisions made don't feel forced, they feel natural and logical. At no point was I compelled to yell obscenities at the screen protesting character stupidity(leg cut excluded). Much of the Bear chase presented immediate solutions, with no choice to the point where the most illogical choice -to actually make a stand and kill this bear- becomes the ONLY choice, for all other options have expired.

Secondly, upon close inspection of the performances, the acting is spot on. I'd call the performances far from "wooden"! I think they were heart-felt, high-energy, and consistent. Of course, if you aren't paying attention, certainly it would seem as though Alec Baldwin's character, Bob, shifts toward the end as he 'turns' on Anthony Hopkins' character, Charles, with his attempt to kill him. However, it doesn't take much more than an above 8th grade level of comprehension to get that Bob has been cynically plotting to kill Charles far before the film even begins. That scene in the cabin was simply his chance to finally unburden his feelings toward the situation and justify what he was about to do(made final by the "For All The Nights" discovery). Upon watching the film a second time through, it's evident that Bob was able to suppress the impending deed (which in my opinion was something he thought he HAD to do in the end) for the more imminent task of survival, and even taking those feelings and burying them for the time being.

There is also an interesting element of male bonding in the face of adversity-not overcoming the vices and evils that cement Bob to his ultimate deed. Also impressive was the extensive knowledge, yet honest innocence of Charles being something of a recluse from conventional thinking. To the end giving Bob the benefit of the doubt as a man worth preserving; such a sad tale of a very lonely, rich man(never feel sorry for a man that owns a plane); indeed two men who through this experience could have been friends if not for the complexity of their 'other' lives back in civilization. That said, Bob's reasoning was justified to Bob and I could understand his position and motives.

Bobs confrontation of Charles in the clearing tells a very deep rooted stereotype he has for the wealthy class, not really getting that Charles was at the very least an exception to that rule if not a shining example of what was the better human being. In any case Bob felt as though he was entitled to Mickey more-so than Charles, even implying that Mickey and he would be together if not for Charles' wealth. This hatred remained too deep to ignore even after their experience.

And I'm sorry, but to see that fundamental stand-up and confidence chant (what one man can do another can do) despite lingering fear in Bobs face gets me saying "hell yeah" each and every time. One of the party having already suffered death and devouring by this behemoth, the fight was believable as rational thought ended up being the key. Horribly outmatched, they owed a lot to courage and luck. In my opinion the film became sobering upon the death of their friend by the bear, and I always breath a sigh of relief watching that bear laying there dead, the two exhausted men leaning against it, out of breath, as we swallow what we just went through.

Thus, survival at that point was over and resolved in my opinion. These men could survive in the wilderness having passed what I thought to be an ultimate test. I also believe that, after the bear slaying, more time had elapsed than a lot of reviewers give credit for. The fact that they made clothing, food, and other things out of the bear to me marked the passage of a good deal of time.

What I also saw was a very natural and gradual unraveling of their character as the experience wore on them, until the core of things finally prevailed in the end. And it wasn't the deceit or even the cheating. It was in the end about two men, one dying (justly) yet somehow I felt sad to see him go. Because on what turned out to be his death bed, he offered Mickey's innocence in this business of doing Charles in. An act of virtue from a character who had previously only acted in his own interest got to me. Plus Charles' bond to him was enough to put me on his side and root for this attempted murderer to live.

In my opinion the depth, scope, and insight into darker aspects of the human condition go largely unnoticed in this film, for people go in expecting bears, Baldwin, and Hollywood and usually only see what they expect to see. No more, no less. I feel that this film was nicely filled out, packed with little things I loved and fundamental things that moved and entertained me. I hate to see relatively high-brow stuff being overlooked and passed off as low-brow, but I suppose The Edge remains a sleeper.
VizoRRR

VizoRRR

The Edge reminded me of the old Kipling quote, that to be a superior man means to keep your head when everyone around you is loosing theirs!Its is my favorite survival film, & one of the best of Baldwin & Hopkin's careers. In addition to a great cast (check out Michael from LOST!), interesting characters & great action, the film asks many questions of the audience - Why do some succeed where others fail? How do we look at success - when we see it in others, do we feel envy or admiration? I think that the central message of the film is that in order to prevail in any difficult endeavor, people must rise above their "lower", "animal" instincts like fear & selfishness, and embrace "higher" qualities like self-control, intellect, compassion, & sacrifice.
inetserfer

inetserfer

The Edge is a powerful motion picture that satisfies in every way. First of all, it delivers as an action/adventure film (which is what it is) by giving the audience some heart stopping sequences, and it never slows down. The Edge also delivers as a dramatic film, with an ending that is painfully sad, yet satisfying. This is one fine movie, and the performances by Hopkins (one of my favorite actors today) and Baldwin are superb. They portray their characters with an honesty, and with a realistic nature that only great actors can accomplish. As the plot twists and the pace picks up, you start to become so involved that you forget time is passing by. I strongly suggest this one to action lovers and to anyone who enjoys a good story.
Nnulam

Nnulam

The Edge is not interesting just because it's a well made survival thriller. The behind the scenes events on the film are pretty interesting too, especially the fact that it was filmed in such difficult conditions that star Hopkins developed life threatening pneumonia midway through the production.

The story tells of a shy but intelligent billionaire (Hopkins) who is married to a stunning model (MacPherson). Unbeknown to him, his wife is unhappy in their relationship and has been having her wicked way with a photographer (Baldwin). All three of them, plus a whole lot more, find themselves in the wilds of Alaska for a photograph shoot, but things go horribly wrong when a plane carrying Hopkins and Baldwin crashes in the middle of the wilderness. They must use every bit of practical skill and common sense they possess to survive until they can be found, and to make matters even worse they become the prey of a roaming grizzly bear.

Some of the man .vs. bear scenes are the most terrifying scenes of people tackling dangerous animals ever put on film. The increasingly strained relationship between Hopkins and Baldwin, as each reveals more of their secrets to the other, is very well played and creates some genuinely tense moments. The backdrop of Alaskan wilderness is pleasing to the eye throughout the whole film. There's nothing really wrong with The Edge at all: it's a well made, interestingly told and often exciting survival thriller. The only drawbacks it has are minor, such as MacPherson's inexpressive performance and a few boring stock characters in the small roles. Well worth watching.
Yahm

Yahm

A truly superb film. A story of survival. Not of the fittest but of the most dedicated and resourceful. Essentially a two character interplay, Anthony Hopkins and Alec Baldwin are perfectly cast with intense portrayals of their characters. The supporting cast is minimal but makes for a tasty side dish with Harold Perrineau, Elle Macpherson, and veteran actor L.Q. Jones as a venerable weathered sly fox. Written by David Mamet, whose magnificent style is evident throughout, and directed by Lee Tamahori the film delivers a unique array of action, dialogue. and symbolism. Added also is a magnifcent and haunting score by Jerry Goldsmith. Tribute must also be given to Bart the bear, his trainer. and the Animatronic bear which provided some terrific action sequences. A shame this film did not garner any awards. Recommended highly.
Goldenfang

Goldenfang

A very strong performance by Anthony Hopkins, Bart the Bear, and Alec Baldwin, in that order, in a film that deals with the important subjects of virtue, wisdom, and morality. I can understand why some of the modern audience might find that to be a turn-off. The sets and locations alone are worth a rental, especially of the DVD, the haunting Goldsmith score lingers in the memory and enhances the viewer's pleasure in the film. What a joy it is to see a film that is tautly and expertly written, that tells the salient details of the plot but leaves you guessing--through repeated viewings--of the whys, wheres and whens of the development. If you favor serious drama--if you relish philosophy--if you don't need a film spoon fed to you or so puerile that they try to stun you with explosions--you will enjoy The Edge. My choice of a collegiate vocabulary in this review is deliberate.
Malanim

Malanim

This has got to be one of the best films i have seen it defeantly rates in the top 20 on my list, beautiful scenes, very original idea, great acting, and edge of your seat excitement. I have seen this film about 5-6 times and i have not got bored of it. anyone who has not seen this must head down and grab this movie!.
Rare

Rare

Some reviews refer to this movie as "Jaws With Claws". Perhaps, but the breath taking cinematography and numerous sub plots make this a way better movie. The negative and mediocre reviews (I believe) are the result of armchair survivalists and those that are so saturated with city folk movies that they are practically in culture shock when watching something like this.

I've watched this movie numerous times, and from my perspective, everything is perfect. Introduction - Rising Action - Initial Incident - More Rising Action - Unfolding Sub Plots - 2 Separate Climaxes - Falling Action - Resolution. None of that annoying artistic, trying to be different garbage. Very nicely done.

Music score, directing, and acting are all top notch as well...doesn't get much better than Hopkins and Baldwin. And especially Bart The Bear (RIP). I've watched several documentaries of Bart and his owner Doug Seus. Bart knew when the camera's were rolling and when to turn on the juice in acting ferocious. Nothing scarier than a 1000 pound Kodiak bear stalking you through the woods (wanting to eat you).

No spoilers, highly recommended, one of my all time favorite movies.
Sadaron above the Gods

Sadaron above the Gods

Possible spoilers -

The best line in this movie was: Bob (Baldwin) says to Charles (Hopkins) in referring to the huge bear who is stalking them, "What are we going to do, Charles?" Charles calmly replies, "We're going to kill him."

The interplay between the billionaire and the photographer who is playing with his young wife is very interesting. You keep wondering when and if Bob will make a move. The two are trying to find their way out of the wilderness after a plane crash. Hopkins is a rich guy who knows everything and and finally saves the day, even though he was threatened with death. The bear fight was excellent. Bart the bear should have received an award. A high point was at the end when Charles hands Bob's watch to his wife. Watch the movie and you will know why she knew that Charles knew.
Magis

Magis

This film was a revelation! When it was on general release in the cinema, I gave it a wide berth. I can't remember why, probably the combination of a weak title, Alec Baldwin in a starring role and a really unimaginative trailer. I've just seen it on a 14-inch TV screen and am so sorry I didn't catch it on the big screen (or even a 26-inch TV!).

David Mamet can write but he knows his place! This is an action adventure movie and so Mamet is not trying to make any great philosophical point. He does provide a wide variety of thematic ingredients (man V nature, youth V age, brains V brawn, machismo, infidelity) to ensure that the story line is far more interesting than most of Hollywood's action-movie schlock. And, of course, a furry killing machine that can smell a man from 10 miles and run through the forest at 30 mph!

Charles, (Anthony Hopkins' erudite billionaire character) starts out as the vulnerable, isolated character of the film. He's married to Mickey, his photo-model wife(Elle can act herself!) flirts quite openly with Bob the handsome, younger photographer (Baldwin). Charles seems set up for a fall. In his self-effacing way, he confesses to knowing a lot "in theory" but not being great at "practical application".

So when the plane crashes into an icy lake, Charles is the one for whom you most fear but that's when all the surprises start..........

The biggest disappointment for me is that a fine actor such as Harold Perrineau finds himself playing a role that is a classical Hollywood cliché, the nice black guy who gets killed. When are they going to cut this crap out? Either kill the guy in the crash or give him a character but don't just make him plot fodder. Seeing Stephen (Perrineau) with the other two on the lake shore, you just knew he would have all the longevity in this film as James Bond's first female conquest. As David Mamet doesn't share the writing credits with a studio committee or an executive producer, I suppose he has to take responsibility.

That said, this is a really gripping film. Well directed photographed and acted (even by Baldwin!). And the bear! How long do you have?

The shots where you (from Charles point of view) are staring down the roaring bear's throat and can see his uvula through an emerging cloud of steamy breath are just brilliant. I could almost smell that bear. I believe they made extensive use of prosthetics. Excellent FX!
Cozius

Cozius

What's so good about this picture? Well, it's actually very well shot and some very nice writing by Mamet.

Many people probably haven't even heard of this picture, the title is uninspiring but the film isn't.

The direction is superb, the widescreen frame is filled with details and characters use the 2.35:1 scope very well. The film is shot with the cinema screen in mind, not pan and scan. The photography is beautiful, the landscape comes alive, sometimes it steals the picture away from the characters.

The acting is fine, but sometimes a bit more meat was required in the middle of the picture. I don't think the actors had enough depth, but overall not bad.

The picture is about survival and that's all I will say.

The final frames are disappointing, should've been handled better.

The director did a terrific job capturing the Alaska terrain.

As usual, please view this picture in widescreen otherwise people you would have only seen 57% of the picture. There is only one way to enjoy the photography, and that's in widescreen.
Lonesome Orange Kid

Lonesome Orange Kid

Came across this on Netflix having never heard of it, but this film really deserves a look. There's a lot of philosophy and thought given to the dialogue. You can tell the writers are digging deep and borrowing from the greats. Even if you have heard the life quotes before, there is something very refreshing in hearing them in place in a story.

Anthony Hopkins character is unfortunately far too good to be true, but the final scene with Baldwin has had me thinking about forgiveness a lot.

Very much a male self help film, and that's no bad thing.
Adrietius

Adrietius

The Edge is one of those movies where if you ask someone if they have seen it, they probably have not. That is one reason it is my favorite movie. I like to call it a rare movie that showcases a fantastic cast who all have good chemistry throughout, and tell a good story - all this without being overly known.

The story isn't an Oscar winning one, but what is refreshing about this particular story compared to others is that it can be related to real life experience. They are in a real wilderness, facing a real bear, not a CGI monster looking to destroy everything in it's path. The story also allows for strong character development throughout, as Charles puts his theoretical knowledge into more practical use. With Bob is a tad different as we slowly see his evil ways as the story progresses, but ultimately leaves being somewhat of a resurrected 'good guy' after his plans to kill Charles backfire. Stephen just seems to be the likable character with a few funny jokes to keep himself in the loop of the movie, but was always ultimately going to die in the movie. It also truly shows the motif of the panther and the rabbit shown in the movie. We are to believe that the symbolism refers to the bear and the three men, but it is more deeply referring to Charles and Bob. We see this in the end where Bob is ready to carry out his plans and end Charles, however Charles in the face of death comfortably smokes his invisible pipe and turns the tables on Bob. A forgiving man he is as he spares Bob's life and helps him in the end. A sad ending where it seems that just when all was forgiven, Bob decides there is no more left for him in the world and dies. Overall the story is great and I find it to be very original and not mainstream. Everything ties together well from the beginning to the middle to the conclusion.

One of the things that make this movie so under-rated is the acting, namely from Hopkins and Baldwin who give a performance that continue to compliment each others characters. The acting portrays everything a good movie should; happiness, sadness, deceit, betrayal, triumph, forgiveness, and motivation. "I'm gonna kill the bear!" That scene alone summarises just how great the acting was from Hopkins and Baldwin throughout the film. Charles is knowledgeable, mentally strong and for the most part soft spoken and reassuring - Hopkins portrays his character to perfection. Bob is arrogant, cocky and conniving, but in the end remorseful and is displayed excellently but Baldwin from beginning to end. Overall a great acting performance that I believe should have been award winning.

The movie as a whole works tremendously well with good chemistry between the characters and fantastic directing and cinematography. For what seems to be a lower budget film, it is definitely up there with the best action/thriller movies past and present.
Jieylau

Jieylau

This movie is one that I can never stop watching, if it comes on TV or someone rents it. First of all, the scenery is magnificent! The wilds of Alaska are probably one of the last great "otherworlds" of our planet. And, Anthony Hopkins has always been one of the best looking actors out there, to me. So, now you've got a cool looking guy, playing a brain (yowza!!), a rich one at that, and some beautiful scenery. A flock of wild geese bring down the plane. From that point on, it's non-stop action. ANY time you think that these men might make it out of there, here comes BART to prove otherwise! I love how Bart (the grizzly) is just relentless!! He is determined to eat these fellows, or at least one of them. Go Bart! ( eat the liberal, watch him run ) Ah, it's a great story, and acted very well.

I do in all honesty feel sorry, for the grizzly bear. I don't care how much his real life trainers may say he "loves" them; I just can't see keeping a creature like that as a pet, confined, and domesticated. They are magnificent creatures who should be respected ( aka left alone ). I would feel the same way seeing a human kept, very well, in a Martian zoo. It's just not right.

In the end, Charles (Hopkins) walks up to his wife, who he has learned has been seriously unfaithful to him. He lets her know that he knows. But then, when asked by the reporter about the other man (Baldwin), who we as the audience know was trying to kill Charles, Charles states that (Baldwin) "saved my life". Okay, what does that mean? does it mean that Baldwin pointed out to Charles what a farce his marriage was, and the truth has set him free? Or that, through his experience with Baldwin, and with Bart, that he now feels complete as a human, knowing that he survived in the deep forest, using only his brains and instinct? If anyone knows the answer, as to how Baldwin "saved his life" please let me in. thanks!!
Broadraven

Broadraven

The Edge (1997)

This is a fun wilderness adventure movie with some terrific acting by both Alec Baldwin (as a spoiled bad boy) and Anthony Hopkins (as a very smart millionaire). They battle of wits, and the fighting of the elements, is fodder for screenwriter David Mamet, who has produced more interesting dialog than this, for sure. The third star is the Kodiak bear, who gets a huge credit line at the end, and who unites, at least sometimes, the two men in the cold isolation of Alaska.

But let's face it, as much fun as this is, this is thin going. It even looks a bit like a slightly adult version of a Disney adventure film, with people bonding and conflicting as needed. In fact, if you start comparing this movie to others like it (there are a few), you might even consider the television series "Lost," which is at least more imaginative and full-blooded in its writing. Or just survival in the mountains you might check out "Touching the Void."

I just saw the old Spencer Tracy movie "Mountain" this week, and it is a weird precursor to this one (minus the bear). That is, two people facing the elements have very different ideas of morality and of trust. Like that movie, this newer one doesn't explore the conflict of personae, or ethics, very far, giving only what are the obvious differences. That's not enough for a feature length affair.

Which brings us back to Baldwin and Hopkins. They are, actually, enough to hold you in for the duration. You really do hope they survive, and if you wince at some of the dialog and at the appearance of bear traps at all the wrong moments, you can get into the drama of it pretty well. And into the scenery. Amazing stuff.
RUL

RUL

The movie has to do with what is invisible to the eye, which is indeed the essential. It is the attitude, the mindset and the inner strength, the one thing that separates a loser from a winner, the dead from the alive, the happy from the desperate, the billionaire from the greedy...the movie is a fantastic picture filled with the power and depth of two movie giants that not only provides on The Edge entertainment, but a life lesson or two as well...You have to look below the surface to understand the life lessons of mental toughness that the movie presents. The shrewed and sharply intelligent Charles, played by the movie colossal Anthony Hopkins, projects confidence and emotion in every image. Phrases like: "What man can do another can do" could be applied to every area of the life and is the secret to a fulfilling life. You can watch for sheer entertainment, or watch to taste the true essence of the movie, either way is a must see.
Oghmaghma

Oghmaghma

Stockholm, Sunday March 10, 2002

Tonite the family will sit down in the TV-sofa to see the film for a second time! It's really great entertainment!
Opithris

Opithris

What a great movie, the action, the adventure, the scenery, the awesome soundtrack, and 2 great actors.. this is one of my favorite movies. If you haven't seen it yet your missing on a great flick take a couple of hours sit back and enjoy a great film directed by Lee Tamahori!.
Uscavel

Uscavel

Charles Morse (Anthony Hopkins), a billionaire with photographic memory, and two other men, Robert "Bob" Green (Alec Baldwin), a photographer, and Stephen (Harold Perrineau), his assistant, arrive in a remote North America, along with Charles's much-younger wife, Mickey (Elle Macpherson), a fashion model. The group is only there for a photo shoot and staying as guests at a lodge, they later are recruited to another area due to a sick model. After their plane crashes, the men attempt to hike to a more likely search area, only to find that a male Kodiak bear is stalking them. They elude it, but later the bear attacks their camp and kills Stephen.

The angles of the movie were spectacular; it made you feel like you were out in the woods. Seeing the actors in this environment makes you want to put on a coat to watch the movie. A very strong performance by all the actors in a film that deals with using bare instincts on fighting wild animals, staying alive from the elements, and morality. I can understand why some of the more modern audience might find that to be a turn-off. The sets and locations alone are worth a rental. The photography is beautiful, the landscape comes alive, and sometimes it steals the picture away from the characters.

Very strong performances by Anthony Hopkins, Bart the Bear, and Alec Baldwin, Not only were they great but they were troopers with the set. Anthony Hopkins got a severe case of pneumonia while filming out in the cold; I'm a huge fan so his performance was fantastic he can go from a city guy to survival and make it believable. His character was well portrayed and a flawless performance. Alec Baldwin also did a great job in this movie. (And I can't say that I was a big fan of Alec before this movie) I have only seen him in comedy, but I have a better opinion of him now. Elle McPherson has a small role which she played well and portrayed her character very well.

A gripping storyline, fantastic scenery and a real sense of drama and survival, it delivers as an action/adventure film by giving some heart stopping sequences, and it never slows down. The Edge also delivers as a dramatic film, with an ending that is painfully sad, yet satisfying. They portray their characters with honesty, and with a realistic nature that only great actors can accomplish. As the plot twists and the pace picks up, you start to become so involved that you forget time is passing by. I strongly suggest this one to action lovers and to anyone who enjoys a good story.
Bulace

Bulace

In simple words Awesome. It's like the thriller book that you cannot keep down unless the last page is finished. Anthony Hopkins and Alec Baldwin at their best, Hopkins is has this uncanny calmness about him throughout the movie, it spooks you and apparently spooks Alecs character in the film. The bear is simply awesome, how can they make them act like this, its almost impossible. I have seen this movie about 5-6 times, I still would watch it with the same interest, almost as if the story will take a different turn this time! A classic cult movie, a must watch, I am out of words for this one, definitely in my top 10 list of movies.