Having tirelessly competed with Herman Blume for the heart of Miss Cross, Max Fischer finally admits defeat with an uncharacteristic display of humility. But he sure knows how to go out with a bang. After a suitably gritty restaging of Serpico, Max turns his attention to the Vietnam war. The result, 'Heaven and Hell', is part-Platoon parody, part-tribute to Blume's own experiences and the most entertaining school play you've ever seen. "You'll find a pair of safety glasses and some earplugs underneath your seats,'' Max tells his audience on opening night, ''Please feel free to use them". He isn't joking; 'Heaven and Hell' is a jaw-dropping, crowd-pleasing, all-guns-blazing pyrotechnical extravaganza featuring model aircraft, buckets of fake blood and a very real flamethrower. Loud explosions, swooping helicopters and some beautifully choreographed carnage all help to bring the conflict to life. Max's own battles may have drawn to a close but, as the camera picks up on Blume's teary-eyed approval, his play has not only brought about reconciliation but also the perfect end-note to Anderson's greatest film. Like this article? Are there any other Anderson moments that you think should have been included? Let us know in the comments box below.
Yorkshireman (hence the surname). Often spotted sacrificing sleep and sanity for the annual Leeds International Film Festival. For a sample of (fairly) recent film reviews, please visit whatsnottoblog.wordpress.com.
