10000 BC - Thoughts

Released in 2008, 10000 BC is one of Roland Emmerich’s less successful blockbuster efforts. While it was initially hyped during the promotional stage, once aired the critics as well as the public spoke of innumerable historical inaccuracies. I remember seeing the trailers in High Def, and subsequently turning a deaf ear to the media chatter; as I always do. If there’s one thing I’ve learnt about movies, never rely on public opinion or even that of your friends. In 10000 BC, the story follows D’Leh; a young hunter who travels great distances leading his tribesmen and those of several adjoining tribes, to secure a safe and sustainable future for the people, while rescuing his woman, Evolet.


The plot is very simple and straightforward; there are no unexpected twists or in-depth analysis required to figure out 10000 BC. Keeping in mind that this is a depiction of life in 10000 BC, I think it’s only fair that the conflict be based on simple elements like food, the lack of it, oppression of the people, and the treachery and deceit in the name of the gods. That said the movie is fairly interesting, and worth the watch. As expected of Emmerich and his crew, when it comes to visual effects 10000 BC does not disappoint. The Saber-tooth tiger and mighty Mammoth are so real and lifelike that you’ll believe that you’re seeing them in person at perhaps the zoo. It takes a while before you realize, wait these are extinct animals, this is not normal. Watch it for the special effects and the simple yet practical story 10000 BC sets out to be, and you’ll enjoy it.

Performances were average, with most of the cast being amateur. D’Leh was played by Steven Strait, and though his performance lacked some, it made sense from the perspective of him being a crude barbaric man, with expression not necessarily being his forte. Camilla Belle as Evolet had a sorta pretty girl in the tribe charm that worked well. She had the required dreaminess while being rough around the edges. Cliff Curtis as Tic’Tic, the lead warrior of the tribe, executed his role quite well, and was one of the stronger performances. He came across convincingly as experienced, and wise; taking on a somewhat father figure for D’Leh. Finally, Affif Ben Badra, the warlord sent out to steal and plunder from the villages had a cunning to him that worked well. He was harsh and cruel, while being smart enough to further his own agenda.

The DVD I was watching was a regular Region 1 US DVD. Video was good throughout, with visibility remaining consistently clear. Some of the night shots were dark and dusty, but I believe this was intentional. Many of the long shots were scenic and beautiful. CGI was flawless, and sets and creatures were more real than ever. Sound was decent, and was by means of a Dolby Digital 5.1 soundtrack. Ambient desert sounds set the pace well, and dialog was sharp and clear through the center channel.

My Recommendation: Watch It (When Discovery Channel meets HBO)