Clint Eastwood is the shit. Since the 1960's the man has produced, directed and starred in so many memorable films that every new one that he has a part of in the making, I have to see.
Bloodwork represents something of a cliche. It's a murder mystery that I was able to figure out within the first 20 minutes of the film. Ok, so the plot isn't terribly original, however, the story is engaging and the acting as usual is superb. Even in his seventies Clint can still offer up a mean ass stare.
Eastwood plays former FBI Profiler Terry McCaleb a popular figure with the media who's cases garner national attention. His most famous is of a serial killer that left him messages at each crime scene. Upon nearly finally catching the killer, McCaleb suffers a heart attack ending his career. Fast forward two years later, and he is on the waiting list for a transplant as his heart has grown weaker.
Suddenly a heart is available, giving McCaleb new life. A few weeks later while trying to safely relax upon his boat a woman approaches. She has an intriguing request for him. Find out who killed her sister. McCaleb refuses telling her about his health until the woman tells McCaleb he has her dead sisters heart. Thus the plot is set as he feels he owes that much to the woman who saved his life.
Like Space Cowboys before it, Eastwood plays upon the age factor and very well. He is not ashamed to show himself unable to fight anymore in one scene for instance, despite his tough attitude. The movie flows well with plenty of action, though the clues to the whodunit are a bit too obvious. This is an entertaining film once again for Eastwood.
The Disc:
I am a huge fan of Eastwood and always look forward to hearing his mindset in approaching every new film. I was rather disapponted then to see a lack of audio commentary by Eastwood. There is a rather interesting piece called a Conversation in Spanish with English Subtitles that give us some reflection on the film. However this along with another fluff piece (Making Blood Work) is a bit stale.
The film's transfer as expected with many films these days is well done. Crisp colors and fluid motion represent what we all hoped for in 1996 when the format was still a working idea. Warner Brothers has learned over the years that these home transfers must look pristine.
bottom line:
Bloodwork is another solid and very watchable film from a man who is a true legend of Hollywood. Clint Eastwood captivates once again and while not classic, this is an entertaining film.
3 out of 5
By - Brian Gray
