RADIOACTIVE is the incredible, true-story of Marie Skłodowska Curie and her ground-breaking scientific achievements that revolutionized medicine with her discovery of radium and polonium, ultimately changing the face of science forever.
Here is Gadi Elkon’s review of Amazon Studios’ latest movie release.
Iranian filmmaker Marjane Satrapi’s previous films are similarly based on graphic novels. Radioactive is based on the graphic novel ”Radioactive: Marie & Pierre Curie: A Tale of Love and Fallout” by Lauren Redniss. Add in the fine touch of veteran screenwriter Jack Thorne and you have a solid story arch.
The real power of the film is who will bring back to life Marie and Pierre Curie. Sam Riley puts on a nice beard and walks well in top hat and suit. His performance is inline with the stellar cast that surrounds the real star. Rosamund Pike is a force of nature and her ability to dive deeply into her roles is so apparent. Pike’s gritty physical approach is a perfect cover for the heartfelt portrayal she gives us. In the end the film is all about how impactful our Marie Curie is and there is little doubt who brings to life the Madam of Science. Rosamund Pike once again gives an awards worthy performance.
Marjane Satrapi worked with a tremendous crew that helped visualize the graphic novel from page to live screen. Oscar winning cinematographer Anthony Dod Mantle, aka Danny Boyle’s main man, gives us the raw reality of the late 19th and early 20th century Europe. The grime is everywhere but the film does add a lovely sparkle like visual style that adds something unique. The way in which the radioactive science is treated as a magical elixir really helps give the Curie’s work a majestic feel. Two Oscar nominated decoration talents help round out a stellar crew. Michael Carlin’s production design and Consolata Boyle’s epic costumes give the film an authentic yet lovely look.
Amazon Studios’ has had a quality summer with Irresistible and now Radioactive. Don’t miss out on another stellar performance by Rosamund Pike and get to know the powerhouse director Marjane Satrapi.
Directed by: Marjane Satrapi
Written by: Lauren Redniss (based on graphic novel by) and Jack Thorne (screenplay).
Rated: PG-13
Running Time: 1 hr 49 min
Biography / Drama / Romance
Release: Virtual Cinemas July 24th
Starring: Rosamund Pike, Sam Riley, and Anya Taylor-Joy.
Rating: 4 Stars ****
The Selig Rating Scale:
5 Stars – Excellent movie, well worth the price.
4 Stars – Good movie
3 Stars – OK movie
2 Stars – No need to rush. Save it for a rainy day.
1 Star – Good that I saw it on the big screen but wish I hadn’t paid for it.
