All is Lost

Rub-a-dub-dub,
Robert Redford in a tub

Is that all we need to see?

That pretty much explains All is Lost, starring Robert Redford and only Robert Redford and written and directed by J.C. Chandor (Margin Call).

Robert Redford is "Our Man" (No, really. That's what the credits call him!). He's off sailing the Indian Ocean on his yacht, the Virginia Jean. One day it hits an errant shipping container. He patches it up as best he can. He tries to radio for help. Then the ship sinks in bad weather. Now, he's on a life raft...

I was a few steps away from describing the entire movie. Literally. There are only about four instances of dialogue in the entire movie. The rest of it is just action.

Redford as "Our Man" seems like someone who thought he could take on the world. But being out in the Ocean proved him disastrously wrong. And now his own determinism is tested. I think.

Unfortunately, the film's minimalist approach detached me from the experience of his survival. We know nothing of "Our Man" and no reason to care about his survival or death. Now that's a problem.

The standout is actually composer Alex Ebert. His score suits the film's intended mood quite well. Also of note are cinematographer Frank G. DeMarco's view of the Ocean, the whole sound designer team and visual effects crew. Those aspects make one feel like they're really out in the Ocean.

All Is Lost would make a good short subject. But at 100 minutes, it tests the patience of its viewer. Whether or not you enjoy it depends on your ability to be invested in Robert Redford's performance. And I hope you have a more invested time than me.