This film is the very definition of a suspense thriller, the word 'suspense' should be in bold, italics and underlined. With nail-biting chase scenes that are more exhilarating than most horror films could wish for, at parts the film uses smart cinematography in order to project a sense of the unknown into the audience.
Following both the chaser and the chased throughout the film, when the camera seems to stop following the chaser, and focus on the chased at one particular point, we are propelled into the world of the character of Llewelyn Moss. In a dark motel room, the lights go out and footsteps are heard. Is it Anton Chigurh? Is it the motel desk clerk? Just another guest going for a late night smoke? It is almost as if the film makers have decided that if Llewelyn doesn't know, neither should we.
It is this classic example of the brilliance of the Coen Brother's work that sets them apart from many who have tried so hard to create something as wonderful as this film. The absolutely terrifying character of Anton Chigurh, played so brilliantly by Javier Bardem, haunts the audience for a lot longer than the two hours the film runs for. Showing sociopathic traits and a complete lack of remorse, the character seems to be a monster in a man's body. If Chigurh can look so normal, but act so monstrous, what's saying that the people we associate ourselves with in real life are as we see them. It is these small hints and doubts that the Coen Brothers put into this film that really make it something special.
In all honesty, a summary of the film's plot would not do it justice. This truly needs to be seen, the cinematography, script, acting and editing all combined make a phenomenal piece of cinema, one that's wider themes can be discussed for hours on end, the inevitability of time, getting older and death. This film will change your life.
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