Reviews

You guys are thinking way to hard about this film. Kelly explains what's happening in the special edition, but as the director, he shouldn't have to explain anything. Any screenplay book going back to dinosaurs like Syd Field will tell you that. If everything works out, the film asks the questions in the beginning, and answers them in the end. It's an independent film made by a eager young artist fresh out of school. He probably thinks a lot like David Lynch, and Lynch is the master of not explaining anything. Kelly, like Lynch, wanted ambiguity in its meaning, and folks, he got it. Big time. Now, don't get me wrong - I liked it (especially where he threatened his sister about the garbage disposal) and hell, I own it. But it's an independent film for a reason.

For what it is I give it 10/10, and wish him the best in future films. He's probably the envy of all his classmates to this day...

(1) A copy of Baraka. Steal it if you have to. (2) The biggest, clearest TV you can find and 5.1 surround. (3) A fabulously-rolled spleefer as long as your arm. (4) Phones off the hook, and an empty house with the lights out. (5) A recliner with a seat belt. (6) 96 minutes of your time.

I am 30 year old factory worker who loves NASCAR and Hockey and own 3 carbureted cars - 1 parked in my backyard that hasn't ran in 2 years AND I could probably pass for the guy who might spit as I offer you confusing directions if you stopped to ask, but I have never seen anything anywhere remotely close to this masterpiece. It's so good that it runs through my head while I'm slugging away at work covered in factory germs. The Burgan oil fires (the fire we possess) to the Australian steel workers (our ongoing need to keep the fire going) to the Auschwitz gas ovens (what we choose to do with it) is pure cinematic genius. For me, the Whirling Dervishes forward is my favorite scene. Where it slides from the mosque in Mecca to the cathedral ceiling at the Vatican is absolutely mind-bending. I feel like crying every time I watch it, yet I'm not all that religious.

Aside from all this film brings with it, it's not for everyone, and I can understand that. I was 17 when it came out and probably could have cared less. But for a blue-collar hick in need of a shave like me, I'd take this movie to prison if I was allowed.

When you see it for the first time, don't ask questions. Turn the volume up as loud as you can and just watch it. Baraka will provide you with everything you need. 10 thumbs out of 10, and not just up, but way up. Can't wait for the sequel.