Last Of The Mohicans, The (1992)
Starring: Daniel Day-Lewis, Madeleine Stowe, Russel Means, Wes Studi
Director: Michael Mann
Synopsis: Thrilling epic romantic adventure
Reviewed by: Ali Khan

Based on James Fenimore Cooper's novel, the film is set in the wilderness of the new frontier in 1757. Serving as the backdrop is the complex war between the French and the British and their respective indigenous and settler allies. Amidst this turmoil, three Mohicans, including Hawkeye (Daniel Day-Lewis), a European adopted at birth by a Mohican after his settler parents were killed, attempt to guide the daughters of a British general to safety.

Michael Mann (Heat, Manhunter) better known for his pulsating thrillers, brings his inimitable style and energy to the romantic historical epic genre. In doing so he creates as thrilling and exhilarating a romantic epic that you could hope to see. There are some stunning sequences with Mann, as always, excelling in the action set pieces.

The battle scenes are breathtakingly staged (and graphically violent) and the 10 minute finale, is Mann at his masterful best. More surprisingly, Mann handles the romantic angle of the film equally adeptly. Here he is helped immensely by his lead actors. Daniel Day-Lewis (with fine American accent), free from Oscar expectations, is a surprisingly charismatic and dynamic Hawkeye. Madeleine Stowe, is outstanding as the beautiful but strong Cora Munroe.

As the film turns quickly from a historical epic to a full-blown romance, the performances of both Day-Lewis and Stowe were critical to the film and their stirring renditions make the heart of the film. The lead actors are well supported by Russel Means as Hawkeye's father Chingachkook and Jodhi May as love interest of half brother Uncas. Also providing a chilling performance is Wes Studi as the gnarled, ruthless Huron, Magua.

Throughout the film, Mann is supported superbly by his technical team. Dante Spinotti's camera work and cinematography are visually stunning and Randy Edelman's score adds to the stirring nature of the film. The film also won an Oscar for Best Sound. The Last of the Mohicans is by no means a great film but its fast paced and stylish enough to literally sweep you off your feet. Rousing stuff.