Movie spotlight
Ishmael
In a place lost to history, soldiers are sent to cull a rebellion brought on by mass psychosis. Ishmael, the executioner, and Boethius, an officiating priest, have grown tired of this bloodwork. When they’re tasked with killing Absalom, a delusional pig farmer who believes himself the royal heir, the two must make a decision; to execute him or to encourage his delusion. A path that could either absolve them of guilt or leave all three dead.
Insights
Plot Summary
In a remote wilderness setting, a troubled individual named Ishmael grapples with his past and his place in the world. He encounters a series of characters who challenge his perceptions and force him to confront his inner demons. The film explores themes of isolation, redemption, and the search for meaning in a harsh environment.
Critical Reception
The film received a generally mixed to negative reception from critics, with some commending its atmospheric qualities and the performances of its lead actors, while others found its narrative disjointed and its themes heavy-handed.
What Reviewers Say
Performances by Fonda and Arkin were noted as strong.
The film's pacing and narrative structure were often criticized.
Visually, the film was praised for its atmospheric cinematography.
Google audience: Audience reception for 'Ishmael' is not widely documented through Google user reviews.
Fun Fact
Director Paul Morrissey intended for 'Ishmael' to be a more philosophical exploration of human nature, drawing parallels to Herman Melville's classic novel 'Moby Dick' through its themes of obsession and the search for meaning.
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