I haven't actually read Yann Martel's novel Life of Pi, so I don't know how true this is to the novel. But I must say, I really don't mind, because as a film, this is a magical experience that takes you on a brilliant magical mythical tour.
One warning before I begin. This is not a children's movie, despite being PG rated. There were children in the cinema of 3 and 4 who were not only bored because they couldn't follow the story, but also, several were upset by some of the more full-on scenes of storms, shipwrecks and animals eating other animals. So I wouldn't recommend any children under about 8, and then only if you have discussed some of the themes first.
Ang Lee is not one of the most prolific directors in the world, but that is because he makes films that he really wants to, and that are beautifully crafted. His last major success was Brokeback Mountain, and he averages one film every two to three years. He has taken a novel that is often said to be unfilmable, and made it a fantastically entertaining and emotional experience.
Pi is living in Canada, and is approached by a writer who has been told by a mutual friend that Pi has a fascinating story to tell. The rest of the film is told in flashback, with regular visits back to modern day to break the tension or set what we are seeing in context.
Pi has grown up in India, in an area colonised by the French, in a zoo that was started by his father. His parents want their sons to learn important lessons about life and how the world works. This includes selling the zoo animals when the boys are in their late teens and moving to Canada.
On the journey, the ship comes to a tragic end, and Pi's journey of survival begins. He is cast adrift on the ocean for weeks 'alone', encountering all the terrors and wonders that the ocean can throw at him, storms, sharks, flying fish, searing heat and freezing cold.
The CGI and special effects on this film are breathtaking, and ultimately seamless. You forget that what you are seeing is impossible, and just go. 'Suspension of disbelief' takes over, without you having to wish it. I know he wasn't floating on a see of luminescent jellyfish, but I didn't even think about that fact until after the film.
The story is delightful and gently told. It shows that you can use CGI and other special effects for purposes other than blowing things up, creating what lived in Tolkein's head or to make vampires fly. It takes us to a place where things are hard, but the story is uplifting.
In a way this film is about faith and hope, and is extremely spiritual, without forcing you to pay attention to any one religion. Pi considers himself to be Hindu, Christian and Moslem all at once. It's fascinating, gentle and thoroughly engrossing.
And, as with most of Ang Lee's work, we can guarantee that there will not be a gratuitous sequel. Hollywood, I NEVER want to see Life of Pi 2: Richard Palmer Returns!
A definite 4 and a half Orsons!
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