"The freedom of birds is an insult to me. I'd have them all put in zoos" is probably my favorite. He's almost outright saying how deeply nihilistic and full of deep hatred for anything that isn't within his grasp he is. So many quotes from this man have stuck with me.
In high school I wanted to do a book report on this because my dad had recently read the road and I thought I’d be smarter than my classmates. I presented my choice to my teacher and she said “ no no no no absolutely no@
If I heard my teacher in high school blatantly advise against reading or presenting a report on a book, that is basically the first book I’m going to check out at the library, if they even have it.
Reading Blood Meridian is like staring at some nauseating abyss of hell through a beautiful stained glass window. Great book and nearly impossible to adapt as the language itself is the main character
Just wanted to thank you for the way you perfectly summed up why this is unfilmable. It's not so much the events of the book, it's the way McCarthy writes about them, which obviously can't be transferred to a movie.
@@1986ljes Very rarely can a film fully replicate the essence of the written narrative, but if the right actor could be found for the judge, building the film around his speeches would give the film some of the book's texture. The main obstacle still would be the violence, which is necessary but will seem gratuitous to producers and the general public.
@@Landauh You're right. Unfortunately the dichotomy of the beauty of the prose conveying the visceral horror of the violence would be almost impossible to translate to the screen. I'm thinking of the section "Attacked by Comanches" in chapter four. Some of the most poetic language ever put to page, describing a hellscape of unspeakable death and bloodshed. Could David Fincher or the Cohen Brothers (I'm thinking of 'True Grit') manage it? In the hands of lesser directors it would just end up as torture porn, or bloody slapstick, neither of which would do justice to McCarthy.
I had a feeling you will review this next The last 100 pages of Meridian were probably the most captivating piece of literature I've read in the past years
Great review, man. Just finished reading this and I absolutely loved it. Now check this crazy shit out. After finding out the book was based on true events I started looking into the stories of the actual Glanton gang. As one of the previous comments mentions, I found that a man named Samuel Chamberlain, who I've read is the person "the kid" is inspired by, wrote his personal account of his experience in the Glanton Gang. Well, Chamberlain is my grandmother's last name, and when I brought it up she confirmed that Samuel Chamberlain is a direct relative of mine. After falling in love with this book, learning that blew my damn mind.
+Geddy Lytle Dude that is awesome. And I won't, like, ever, like.... uh.. get on your bad side ;) I would like to thank your relative for writing the personal journal and painting the watercolours to inspire one of the greatest writers of all time to write one of the greatest novels of all time. It's my favourite novel so far in my life. But man what a cool family story.
for those who really love this book, it's worth digging up Samuel Chamberlain's book "My Confession" -- he was a member of the Glanton Gang, and it was a major inspiration for McCarthy's novel. in fact, it's worth finding a copy of alone for the few sentences about Judge Holden. yes, McCarthy's novel makes him out to be a Satan/God-like figure, but so does Chamberlain(!) -- and he actually KNEW the guy. he says that he spoke multiple languages, was familiar with far off dialects, was absolutely massive, and endlessly manipulative and violent. for the most part, he was always two steps ahead of _everyone_. it's insane to think these were real people.
I read Blood Meridian before I joined the Army. Then I was lucky enough to be posted in Fort Bliss El Paso (some might not call that lucky,) a scene in BM takes palce in Hueco Tanks, a rock formation outside of El Paso, a place my friends and I frequent for World Class Rock climbing. Well, as you know in that scene the judge chips and destroys paintings. Well, one of the specific paintings he defaces in BM is actually a painting at Hueco Tanks that is chipped away in a ver specific manner! The Glanton Gang did actually hide in the Tanks for a few days and there is still some graffiti to this day attributed to them! Little factoid for you! Keep reviewing and I'll keep watching.
i know this was 8 years ago (since the comment, no clue since the story itself) but im curious as to what the glanton gang's graffiti wouldve been perhaps ill have to go find out myself one day
Blood Meridian is the greatest American novel ever written. The novel encompasses everything America is and always has been. "His origins are become remote as is his destiny and not again in all the world's turning will there be terrain so wild and barbarous to try whether the stuff of creation may be shaped to man's will or whether his own heart is not another kind of clay." "Men’s memories are uncertain and the past that was differs little from the past that was not." "He never sleeps, he says. He says he’ll never die."
@@someonethatwatchesyoutube2953Jaws is good. I liked it more the. The film. But I don’t have it that high. Crime & Punishment, Les Miserables, Count of Monte Cristo, Brothers Karamazov, Anna Karenina, War & Peace, Darkness At Noon, The Master & Margarita I have all above Jaws
This review persuaded me toward finally buying and reading Blood Meridian. WOW. It is the best thing I've ever read by far. Judge Holden was pure evil incarnate.
"When God made man the devil was at his elbow... a creature that can do anything. He can make a machine. A machine to make the machine. An evil that can run itself a thousand years, no need attended."
Yeah I thought it was weird. All that scalping, but yet he's immune. My theory is that The Judge is some form of demon. My reasoning comes from this passage: "and there’s men in this company besides myself seen little cloven hoof-prints in the stone clever as a little doe in her going but what little doe ever trod melted rock? I’d not go behind scripture but it may be that there has been sinners so notorious evil that the fires coughed em up again and I could see well in the long ago how it was little devils with their pitchforks had traversed that fiery vomit to salvage back those souls"
Also in the comments of McCarthy’s forum it’s pointed out that the loss of hair in humans (according to this evolutionary positing) is advantageous to remove the possibility of pestilence (lice, for example). Additionally, the source text of which McCarthy draws inspiration describes Holden as being without hair (meaning, without a beard) and so McCarthy takes it a league further and makes him bald.
The glanton gang urinating in a cave to make gunpowder as homage to paradise lost is what settled it for me. Favorite book of all time. Wouldn’t mind a part two to this one. Another great video, thanks Cliff
While I didn't enjoy the book as much as others (I still liked it), I must admit that McCarthy's ability to depict the chaos and pure unadulterated nature of combat is unmatched. The passage early on involving the Comanche attack has to be my favorite part of the book and nigh geniusly written.
Excellent review. Just finished this book about 5 hours ago. All aspects of mortality, and the life therein, are presented in a beautiful, unforgettable poetic vision.
Thank you! This was on my TBR for a while until I stumbled upon your review. I watched a few minutes of it and stopped. I didn't want to finish your review until I finished the book. I immediately pulled it off my shelf and devoured it. It was so so good. And your review certainly does it justice! Thank you.
You make such a quality video, sir. Thanks for taking the time to introduce me to great literature. I really enjoy hearing your opinions on a work, as they don't spoil the experience of reading, but add to it. Keep up the good work!
I've just finished the book. I'm not a big reader and struggled reading it for months (English isn't my first language and the wording in Blood Meridian isn't the easiest) but somehow, I couldn't let this book go, I had to continue, and even though I didn't understand every word nor could feel deeply attached to any character (since they're depicted so coldly), I know it will haunt me forever.
Thank you for taking my request sir! I was really curious in your opinion on McCarthy´s work. Ive read All the Pretty Horses & The Road, both of are breathtaking & currently am halfway through this one & your review is so spot on! Shit I gotta try rolling with tequila in the desert & take a lovely nap after reading this book!
I read this book quite a few years ago. Then read it again a few times over the years. Have taken it backpacking and read it in my little tent as the black bears prowled outside sniffing my boots. And no doubt I'll read it again soon in the future. You've done it (and Mr. McCarthy) justice with this review.......good job.
Thank you for another great review ! Evidence that cannot be gainsaid that books are way better than food is that no piece of food will ever hit us like a crowbar to the spine (loved the image) and leave us with the scoliosis we all need to get through our rickety lives. You asked for recommendations. If I may, I just finished "Vilnius Poker" by Ricardas Gavelis, and it was Kafka-meeting-Burroughs-meeting-Bukowski great. (I want to go to Santa Fe very badly)
Try earth's album hex; Or Printing In The Infernal Method- each track title refers to blood meridian & the music suits the book perfectly (it's on youtube btw)
Thanks for this review. It prompted me to buy the book. Glad I did. The prose is mind blowing. And his command of the English language, his vocabulary etc.
A brilliant book. One of the few that left me flat out gobsmacked after finishing it, and over two years later I'm still reeling from the gut punch it strikes into you in its last few pages. It's due a re-read. Great review. On a tangential note, I would recommend The Rings of Saturn by W.G. Sebald, only because I'm currently reading it and I can't think of a sharper antithesis to Blood Meridian in terms of content.
I grew up with the rise of television and movies and you see the industry raising action and violence to new heights and I became so overly immersed that even the most violent shit never phased me and sure that many of you know this feeling. After reading 'Blood Meridian', I was taught two things: the new definition of violence and short, declarative sentences are more visual than the visual.
Could someone please clarify how the gang urinating to create gunpowder is a link to Paradise Lost? I've never committed hard enough to read PL and I struggled to find anything online regarding this reference. Thanks!
Absolutely my favorite book on Earth. I am an Author myself & had yet to write a novel…until I read this magnum opus. I had to write something of worth & I aspire to one day write something as worthy as this mans books. I’m currently reading The Stonemason.That & The Gardners Son are the only books I have not read by McCarthy. You did an amazing job reviewing this book, so much so that I will be watching all of your reviews. Thanks for doing these. The time you put in was well worth my time & time is not something I like to waste, my new friend. My name is Reuben Joseph Beeman & I can assure you that I look forward to watching your take on one of my books some day.
Accidentally clicked on this somehow-so glad it happened! I was trying to find a The Road review. Will probably read this now, great review. I love that you referenced that great John Waters quote! Truth
"...war is the truest form of divination. It is the testing of one’s will and the will of another within that larger will which because it binds them is therefore forced to select. War is the ultimate game because war is at last a forcing of the unity of existence. War is god." I'm so joyous you reviewed this!! When I was in high school(only three years ago), I was fairly confident in my writing ability, and then I read this book. When I got to the third page, I threw the book against the wall. I have been more infuriated, more envious, and more happy to read a book. I decided then and there I would do my best to become a writer. Thank you sir for reviewing this and adding your trademark wit and humor. In terms of prose and making a sentence really spark the Irish writer Paul Lynch is very McCarthyian(with a hints of Vladimir Nabokov, and Saul Bellow) , he only has two books under his belt Red Morning in Sky, and The Black Snow but after a few books I feel he will really come into his own. Give either one of them a shot. Good day sir and I can't thank you enough.
Haha!!! This is great! I was researching on what the status is on a Blood Meridian movie and came across the food thing. I know that thought would be looked down upon in this domain of youtube, but I was just curious. Your critiques are great fun! Thanks!
My two favorite books of all time are The Crossing and Blood Meridian, for completely different reasons. The Crossing gets me pumped for a good tour through some empty lands sleeping under the stars and campfires, and Blood Meridian is like reading an archetypal Boschian hellscape set in an equally archetypal American Southwest. Only book I've read that touches them is the recent Hurricane Season--which I discovered through this here channel right here ;)
Great review, decided to check out this book after hearing James Franco's desire to adapt it to a film. If you happen to read my favorite book- Brave New World-, don't hesitate to make a review! Thanks and have a super swell summer
Agree with "archmage 164." Nice review Bradley! Read this book soon after reading McCarthy's Tennessee novels which of Suttree was my favorite. Loved Blood Meridian what I could digest. The Kid's demise was forewarned and The Clanton gang had better character actors than The Usual Suspects, Casablanca, The Andy Griffith Show, etc....Bradley when you can, please continue to delve into your introspect of Blood M.
That distant, awe-struck, shell-shocked look that's on your face in this video is the same look that was on my face the whole time I was reading this book. LMAO! :D I'm going to tackle The Road sometime this year. I'm currently reading The Handmaid's Tale. After that, I'm going to have to take it easy and read some Stephen King. Lol!
It seems to me that the judge is meant to be Mars, the Roman God of War. An "evening redness" could refer to a blood moon or to the red planet instead. The judge's views on war seem to underline the idea that he's the god of it too. Apparently, Mars is cited as being a nimble and light-footed dancer, and the judge makes frequent connections between war and dancing too.
Excellent analysis. There are many metaphorical connections one could make between the Judge and the God of War. Who created Mars (or all of the mythological gods for that matter), figuratively speaking, and what do these mythological figures represent as broader reflections of human nature.
Would you have said to the fighting nobles of Rome, or the the fighting leaders of the Norse peoples, that Mars or Thor were rapers or murderers of children behind a shield and spear or sword? They would have chopped off your genitals and tortured and hung you somewhere visible for an example for that, my friend.
I've always thought of The Judge as a composite of Lucifer, from Paradise Lost, for his grandiosity, Loki, for his seemingly random and at times trickster behavior, one of the Jinn of Islamic tradition, and most especially, the fallen angel Azazel, from Jewish mythology, The Book of Enoch; as Azazel is said to be the angel that descended the heavens and taught man to make weapons and practice war; when they find The Judge in the desert and he makes his crude gunpowder, much of that scene reminded me of Azazel, that and his War is God speech.
I just finished the book and I loved it. To my chagrin without the introduction by Harold Bloom the shooting would have gone over my head. For some reason I imagined the bullet as going over the kid as opposed to through him. Anyways, what you said about beautiful violence is what I felt throughout the narrative. Especially when blood dripping into water is described as blooming flowers. Very good novel. Also, thanks for the Paradise Lost info. I have not read that yet but I will ... eventually. I'm thinking about reading the dual books that Mr. McCarthy just released. I don't think I could go wrong either way.
Great review! This is my favorite book of all the time. The writing is at times almost biblical and really beautiful. I found that the book is clearly very influenced by Moby Dick.
This was my favorite book for a long time. The Judge has to be one of the greatest literary characters to ever appear on the page. Is he the Devil? Maybe. I love how each of the men in Glanton's gang encountered Judge Holden before they formed their party (with the exception of Tobin). It's almost Lovecraftian, in that no one, not even the reader, is capable of understanding Holden and his ways. EDIT (spoiler): I think it's important to contrast the Judge with the expriest Tobin, who serves as a kind of foil to Holden's philosophies, more so than the kid. The volcano scene is so amazing. I also enjoyed the end, and the kid's final confrontation with Holden. I've read and reread so many passages from this book. McCarthy is a poet. However, it's difficult to recommend--the violence is so stark and uncompromising. There is no explanation for it. No cathartic acts of revenge. Violence begets violence, and so on. Maybe that's the point. Either way, great review. Ever read any Roberto Bolano? If not, try 2666.
I read this book 2 times in high school (almost a decade ago.) I had a desensitized morbid curiosity at the time but I don't know if I could stomach this book if I picked it up again. By what I remember wasn't there a part where the gang gets attacked by a big bear and it tears some guy apart?
In a way I wish this wasn't my first book of Cormac McCarthy's. I read it, was blown away and devoured everything else by him. But nothing comes close to how absolutely brilliant this book is. Excellent review, you've earned a new subscriber.
Great review, Mr. Sgt. This is definitely my favorite McCarthy novel, and I'm glad that you shared your thoughts on it. I was wondering, what is your reading process like? e.g., do you jot notes in a seperate notebook while you read?
the audiobook, read by richard poe, is my all time favorite audiobook. please do yourselves a favor and listen to some of the clips on youtube and then get the full reading.
I can't imagine the prose being read by any kind of other voice. Truly the prose was coupled with its soulmate on that recording. A powerful experience
Blood Meridian is possibly the best book I've ever read. McCarthy in my opinion is the best American author of all time. He has a way of simplifying his writing without losing any of its poetic power and beauty.
What a breathtaking book. The judge does not abide. More Brando than Woody I would say :) Colonel Kurtz on steroids. Any thoughts on the end? and the cipher at the end? Just found your videos, love what you are doing.
Books are piling up too fast, I already started Crying of Lot 49, Demons, The Confessions and Book of the Long Sun, but after those this may be the thing to read. It sounds really interesting.
Thanks for the reviews man, keep 'em coming! Really enjoyed Blood Meridian, but could you just explain the Paradise Lost reference more clearly? As in, how is this piece referencing Milton? Loved Paradise Lost too, but it's been a while since I read it!
I guess since this was sold as just a review, and not an analysis, I'm satisfied with the surface level critique. But I would love to see you dive deeper into the text and talk about some of your favorite passages in McCarthy's master piece. Also have you read "Outer Dark"? I'm convinced that it can stand side by side with Blood Meridian and easily hold it's own, in beauty of prose, thematic weight, and powerful characterization of fascinating individuals.
Just started reading random books after years of not reading and this is best book i've ever read,and i doubt i'll ever read something as gritty or trippy as this.When we first see indians and he describes them on half page or so i thought something like oh my god this is insane and than some guy from crew says the same :D I felt like desert was main character and everything that happened was like fata morgana.Anyone have some recommandations for something like this one?
Just grabbed me a copy last night, very excited to start this piece of art :) Picking it up as soon as im done reading The Troop by Nick Cutter (Craig Davidson)
Nice review. Definitely agree with how you view the writing itself as "violent." I love McCarthy's style. At once obscenely grandiose in terms of imagery and still so controlled and sparse linguistically. I read The Road before Blood Meridian and I initially enjoyed The Road more, but as time has gone on Blood Meridian has really grown on me. Without a doubt one of the best endings to a book ever.
I read about a hundred pages from this book but I didn’t get it. I don’t know why people write such difficult books. No country for old men is one of my fav movies of all time. Any pointers on how to approach the text? Thank you.
Nice review of the beautifully savage book. It reads like the best prose from the King James Version of the Old Testament. I think of Marlon Brando, Colonel Kurtz, from Apocalypse Now, when I think about the Judge. Lucifer, from Milton's charming book, isn't as sinister, though. Ales Kot is currently writing a McCarthy inspired book, Zero, for Image comics. It is a mediation on violence, which is influenced by McCarthy, William Burroughs and Andrei Tarkovsky. It is my understanding that McCarthy's next book will have his first female protagonist.
Is it a requirement to know 1850's history to understand this book? Because I'm extremely interested in this book, but I'm not huge into 1800's history. And what books should I read before and or after this book? Please help me.
+Angelo Tomasi Short answer: no but it helps. It's set between the Mexican American War and the Civil War. The intermittent American Indian Wars and the California Gold Rush is going on as well. It's chaos. I'd also recommend knowing what a Navy Colt is and just how much power it gave to those who could afford one. There is a collection of notes available on Amazon that defines the many archaic terms McCarthy throws at you. I recommend reading BM with knowing those bare basics before getting it though. Mysticism is important in BM and the confusion caused by his word choice and lack of punctuation intensify it.
And, I'm just finishing The Passenger. I'm so jealous of McCarthy's ability to imagine/ intuit my thoughts-imaginings, but to then communicate them, bang, with the power of being suddenly shanked.
Great review. Very powerful book. I did find the writing to be very cryptic at times. So much so that I found myself rereading sections just to find out "wait... What the fuck just happened?" I love this book.
Hey Cliff. I just got my copy of Blood Meridian for which i waited for a long long time (considering that the novel is barely available in my country *Pakistan*). I found about the book when I first saw this review of yours a couple of months ago. Now it's waiting for me in my room and I am rewatching this review as a warm-up. To build up the excitement. Thanks for the channel man. Keep rocking.
Hey, man. Definitely yes. There are two books you've reviewed that I'm really looking for. I tried reading their ebooks but it's really distracting. One of them is "The Conspiracy Against the Human Race" by Ligotti. And the other is "On Pain" by Ernst Junger.
The only McCarthy I've read so far is 'The Road', which nearly killed me. I've rarely felt so exhausted and drained after reading a book as I did with that one. I can't say I "enjoyed" it, but it was quite the experience. Maybe I'll try this one as well.
I'd love if you reviewed The Crossing! My personal favorite of his McCarthy's. Gets some flack for being a little drawn out, but there are passages so beautiful in that book it'll make you weep in awe.
Yeah man, especially, it's not like the review will be better than the book, just give you an idea of what to expect. You'll find all sorts of great stuff on your own.
I loved this book, and especially the villain, Judge Holden, who is not only one of the scariest villains in literature, but is one of the greatest villains in literary history. He's up there with Bill Sykes and Randall Flagg, at least for me.
Aj Landingin When the judge makes gunpowder, this is taken directly from Paradise Lost. Satan instructs his fiends in how to make gunpowder. So, the fiends are down in Hell strategizing, somewhat in despair over their chances against God's angels. The fallen angels are standing around Satan, and they're taking turns making speeches, and they've just heard a speech from a fallen angel who says, "We really need a better weapon. Otherwise we're never going to win this war." Satan says Whereto with look composed Not uninvented that, which thou aright Believest so main to our success, I bring. Which of us who beholds the bright surface Of this ethereous mould whereon we stand, This continent of spacious Heaven, adorned With plant, fruit, flower ambrosial, gems, and gold; Whose eye so superficially surveys These things, as not to mind from whence they grow Deep under ground, materials dark and crude, Of spiritous and fiery spume, till touched With Heaven's ray, and tempered, they shoot forth So beauteous, opening to the ambient light? These in their dark nativity the deep Shall yield us, pregnant with infernal flame; Which, into hollow engines, long and round, Thick rammed, at the other bore with touch of fire Dilated and infuriate, shall send forth From far, with thundering noise, among our foes Such implements of mischief, as shall dash To pieces, and o'erwhelm whatever stands Adverse, that they shall fear we have disarmed The Thunderer of his only dreaded bolt. So, there Satan's saying, "Look at the world. You look at all these plants. The chemicals we need are in this earth." So, that is what the judge says, for his part, in like circumstance. The judge like Satan represents heroic evil.
Maybe if he gained 100 lbs. and a foot of height. Hollywood magic can take care of it, I guess, but I have a meatier image of the Judge than Harrelson conjures.
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Whatever video exists without my knowledge exists without my consent. But concerning this one, you have my consent.
Don’t tape me. For I don’t want in your TH-cam video.
WHAHAHAHAHA Judge plz don't give the kid a bad time :)
The Judge god bless you Judge Holden
Hahaha😂
thnaks satan
"Whatever in creation exists without my knowledge exists without my consent" is one of my favorite lines ever
I don't think you can get anymore fascist than that. That line just sets of the alarms in my head.
"when a lamb is lost in the mountains they is cry. sometimes come the mother. sometimes come the wolf"
@@thebenexperience "There is no such joy in the tavern as on the road thereto."
"The freedom of birds is an insult to me. I'd have them all put in zoos" is probably my favorite. He's almost outright saying how deeply nihilistic and full of deep hatred for anything that isn't within his grasp he is. So many quotes from this man have stuck with me.
In high school I wanted to do a book report on this because my dad had recently read the road and I thought I’d be smarter than my classmates. I presented my choice to my teacher and she said “ no no no no absolutely no@
If I heard my teacher in high school blatantly advise against reading or presenting a report on a book, that is basically the first book I’m going to check out at the library, if they even have it.
Reading Blood Meridian is like staring at some nauseating abyss of hell through a beautiful stained glass window. Great book and nearly impossible to adapt as the language itself is the main character
Chaka Caca I'm going to start talking about cormac mccarthy on my channel if you're interested!
Just wanted to thank you for the way you perfectly summed up why this is unfilmable. It's not so much the events of the book, it's the way McCarthy writes about them, which obviously can't be transferred to a movie.
@@1986ljes Very rarely can a film fully replicate the essence of the written narrative, but if the right actor could be found for the judge, building the film around his speeches would give the film some of the book's texture. The main obstacle still would be the violence, which is necessary but will seem gratuitous to producers and the general public.
I think the writing could be rendered into movie through a masterful use of music and leitmotifs... It could work
@@Landauh You're right. Unfortunately the dichotomy of the beauty of the prose conveying the visceral horror of the violence would be almost impossible to translate to the screen. I'm thinking of the section "Attacked by Comanches" in chapter four. Some of the most poetic language ever put to page, describing a hellscape of unspeakable death and bloodshed. Could David Fincher or the Cohen Brothers (I'm thinking of 'True Grit') manage it? In the hands of lesser directors it would just end up as torture porn, or bloody slapstick, neither of which would do justice to McCarthy.
I had a feeling you will review this next
The last 100 pages of Meridian were probably the most captivating piece of literature I've read in the past years
Hell the very last scene of a naked Judge laughing dancing and fiddling is the very finest last paragraph i think! Haunting
He is dancing, dancing. He says that he will never die.
Great review, man. Just finished reading this and I absolutely loved it. Now check this crazy shit out. After finding out the book was based on true events I started looking into the stories of the actual Glanton gang. As one of the previous comments mentions, I found that a man named Samuel Chamberlain, who I've read is the person "the kid" is inspired by, wrote his personal account of his experience in the Glanton Gang. Well, Chamberlain is my grandmother's last name, and when I brought it up she confirmed that Samuel Chamberlain is a direct relative of mine. After falling in love with this book, learning that blew my damn mind.
+Geddy Lytle Duuuude o_0
+Geddy Lytle Dude that is awesome. And I won't, like, ever, like.... uh.. get on your bad side ;) I would like to thank your relative for writing the personal journal and painting the watercolours to inspire one of the greatest writers of all time to write one of the greatest novels of all time. It's my favourite novel so far in my life. But man what a cool family story.
+Geddy Lytle Is there already a taste for mindless violence brooding in you?
Geddy Lytle I'm going to start talking about cormac mccarthy on my channel if you're interested!
If that's true that is very fucking awesome
for those who really love this book, it's worth digging up Samuel Chamberlain's book "My Confession" -- he was a member of the Glanton Gang, and it was a major inspiration for McCarthy's novel. in fact, it's worth finding a copy of alone for the few sentences about Judge Holden. yes, McCarthy's novel makes him out to be a Satan/God-like figure, but so does Chamberlain(!) -- and he actually KNEW the guy. he says that he spoke multiple languages, was familiar with far off dialects, was absolutely massive, and endlessly manipulative and violent. for the most part, he was always two steps ahead of _everyone_.
it's insane to think these were real people.
+air two Absolutely...
+air two I could only find it for 700+ dollars on Amazon
air two I'm going to start talking about cormac mccarthy on my channel if you're interested!
msa1985 I'm way late here but as i recall, Chamberlain referred to Holden as hairless, which at that time just meant beardless.
I read Blood Meridian before I joined the Army. Then I was lucky enough to be posted in Fort Bliss El Paso (some might not call that lucky,) a scene in BM takes palce in Hueco Tanks, a rock formation outside of El Paso, a place my friends and I frequent for World Class Rock climbing. Well, as you know in that scene the judge chips and destroys paintings. Well, one of the specific paintings he defaces in BM is actually a painting at Hueco Tanks that is chipped away in a ver specific manner! The Glanton Gang did actually hide in the Tanks for a few days and there is still some graffiti to this day attributed to them! Little factoid for you! Keep reviewing and I'll keep watching.
Logan Zimmerman Great story
i know this was 8 years ago (since the comment, no clue since the story itself) but im curious as to what the glanton gang's graffiti wouldve been
perhaps ill have to go find out myself one day
Blood Meridian is the greatest American novel ever written. The novel encompasses everything America is and always has been.
"His origins are become remote as is his destiny and not again in all the world's turning will there be terrain so wild and barbarous to try whether the stuff of creation may be shaped to man's will or whether his own heart is not another kind of clay."
"Men’s memories are uncertain and the past that was differs little from the past that was not."
"He never sleeps, he says. He says he’ll never die."
Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison is the greatest novel. From any country
@@HipHop226No.
@@HipHop226nah
@@HipHop226Next to Jaws..maybe
@@someonethatwatchesyoutube2953Jaws is good. I liked it more the. The film. But I don’t have it that high. Crime & Punishment, Les Miserables, Count of Monte Cristo, Brothers Karamazov, Anna Karenina, War & Peace, Darkness At Noon, The Master & Margarita I have all above Jaws
This review persuaded me toward finally buying and reading Blood Meridian. WOW. It is the best thing I've ever read by far. Judge Holden was pure evil incarnate.
Incredible book, read it three times and I just wanna read it again.
iiPrOpHcY I'm going to start talking about cormac mccarthy on my channel if you're interested!
"When God made man the devil was at his elbow... a creature that can do anything. He can make a machine. A machine to make the machine. An evil that can run itself a thousand years, no need attended."
"no need to tend it."
@@mikewiest5135no knee to tender
@@anjoevies exsqueeze me?
@@anjoevies tend'er? I hardly even know 'er!
"Bradley Cooper reviews Blood Meridian."
lol same idea
Precise.
You got damn right
😆🤣😂
A mix between Bradley Cooper and Mathew Modaine
Blood Meridian? I'd say one man's nihilism is another man's gnosticism.
Gnosticism says humans are evil.
The Judge has no hair, he cannot be scalped.
Wow that's a good observation that I'd never considered. Even after reading BM three times. Just another thing that sets him apart
Yeah I thought it was weird. All that scalping, but yet he's immune. My theory is that The Judge is some form of demon. My reasoning comes from this passage:
"and there’s men in this company besides myself seen little cloven hoof-prints in the stone clever as a little doe in her going but what little doe ever trod melted rock? I’d not go behind scripture but it may be that there has been sinners so notorious evil that the fires coughed em up again and I could see well in the long ago how it was little devils with their pitchforks had traversed that fiery vomit to salvage back those souls"
What a troll
Also in the comments of McCarthy’s forum it’s pointed out that the loss of hair in humans (according to this evolutionary positing) is advantageous to remove the possibility of pestilence (lice, for example).
Additionally, the source text of which McCarthy draws inspiration describes Holden as being without hair (meaning, without a beard) and so McCarthy takes it a league further and makes him bald.
Scalping is removal of the “scalp”
Although bald, he still had a scalp.
The glanton gang urinating in a cave to make gunpowder as homage to paradise lost is what settled it for me. Favorite book of all time. Wouldn’t mind a part two to this one. Another great video, thanks Cliff
While I didn't enjoy the book as much as others (I still liked it), I must admit that McCarthy's ability to depict the chaos and pure unadulterated nature of combat is unmatched. The passage early on involving the Comanche attack has to be my favorite part of the book and nigh geniusly written.
"Glanton himself even makes an appearance." I mean, he's like one of the main characters lol
Blood Meridian is an absolute masterpiece and this review was great! Loved your choice of quote from The Judge.
One of my all time favorite books. Hard book to get through, it beats, but you keep coming back asking for more.
Excellent review. Just finished this book about 5 hours ago. All aspects of mortality, and the life therein, are presented in a beautiful, unforgettable poetic vision.
Thank you! This was on my TBR for a while until I stumbled upon your review. I watched a few minutes of it and stopped. I didn't want to finish your review until I finished the book. I immediately pulled it off my shelf and devoured it. It was so so good. And your review certainly does it justice! Thank you.
You're welcome
I’ve revisited this several times over the years.
You’ve done a timeless service to readers throughout time Clifford.
You make such a quality video, sir. Thanks for taking the time to introduce me to great literature. I really enjoy hearing your opinions on a work, as they don't spoil the experience of reading, but add to it. Keep up the good work!
+Benjamin Byrd Thanks Benjamin, shall do.
The Judge is arguably the scariest character ever committed to paper.
I've just finished the book. I'm not a big reader and struggled reading it for months (English isn't my first language and the wording in Blood Meridian isn't the easiest) but somehow, I couldn't let this book go, I had to continue, and even though I didn't understand every word nor could feel deeply attached to any character (since they're depicted so coldly), I know it will haunt me forever.
This is a good, clear and unpretentious review of one hell of a book.
Thanks Cliff, just finished Blood Meridian today (after 3 long months) and until something better comes along it is my new favorite novel, cheers.
Excellent review. You are informed and entertaining, your love of good writing is exciting. Thank you, McCarthy and Faulkner my favorites.
Thank you for taking my request sir! I was really curious in your opinion on McCarthy´s work. Ive read All the Pretty Horses & The Road, both of are breathtaking & currently am halfway through this one & your review is so spot on! Shit I gotta try rolling with tequila in the desert & take a lovely nap after reading this book!
Just finished the novel. One of the most powerful reads I've had. Thank you very much for the recommendation.
I read this book quite a few years ago. Then read it again a few times over the years. Have taken it backpacking and read it in my little tent as the black bears prowled outside sniffing my boots. And no doubt I'll read it again soon in the future. You've done it (and Mr. McCarthy) justice with this review.......good job.
Thank you for another great review !
Evidence that cannot be gainsaid that books are way better than food is that no piece of food will ever hit us like a crowbar to the spine (loved the image) and leave us with the scoliosis we all need to get through our rickety lives.
You asked for recommendations. If I may, I just finished "Vilnius Poker" by Ricardas Gavelis, and it was Kafka-meeting-Burroughs-meeting-Bukowski great.
(I want to go to Santa Fe very badly)
Listen to Jonny Greenwood's There Will be Blood soundtrack while you read this book, you will not regret it.
That's a pretty amazing idea, holy fuck. That'll switch things up when I do my 4th read of it lol
Lmao i couldnt think of any western soundtracks off of the top of my head, so when i was reading i went full hellish and had the Diablo II soundtrack
I read it with Arvo Pärt's Fratres, which was featured in the movie, and Tabula Rasa. Can confirm that it's a pretty good experience.
Sicario soundtrack too
Try earth's album hex; Or Printing In The Infernal Method- each track title refers to blood meridian & the music suits the book perfectly (it's on youtube btw)
Thanks for this review. It prompted me to buy the book. Glad I did. The prose is mind blowing. And his command of the English language, his vocabulary etc.
I looked for literary analysis on this book, and found this review. You did a fantastic job!
A brilliant book. One of the few that left me flat out gobsmacked after finishing it, and over two years later I'm still reeling from the gut punch it strikes into you in its last few pages. It's due a re-read. Great review. On a tangential note, I would recommend The Rings of Saturn by W.G. Sebald, only because I'm currently reading it and I can't think of a sharper antithesis to Blood Meridian in terms of content.
Two books by Robert Stone: "A Hall of Mirrors" and "Dog Soldiers." Since you dig Cormac you should find a lot of merit to these works.
Dog Soldiers is an all-time classic and so underrated.
This review is amazing! I’m gonna download this book now thanks to you!
I grew up with the rise of television and movies and you see the industry raising action and violence to new heights and I became so overly immersed that even the most violent shit never phased me and sure that many of you know this feeling. After reading 'Blood Meridian', I was taught two things: the new definition of violence and short, declarative sentences are more visual than the visual.
Could someone please clarify how the gang urinating to create gunpowder is a link to Paradise Lost? I've never committed hard enough to read PL and I struggled to find anything online regarding this reference. Thanks!
Absolutely my favorite book on Earth. I am an Author myself & had yet to write a novel…until I read this magnum opus. I had to write something of worth & I aspire to one day write something as worthy as this mans books. I’m currently reading The Stonemason.That & The Gardners Son are the only books I have not read by McCarthy. You did an amazing job reviewing this book, so much so that I will be watching all of your reviews. Thanks for doing these. The time you put in was well worth my time & time is not something I like to waste, my new friend. My name is Reuben Joseph Beeman & I can assure you that I look forward to watching your take on one of my books some day.
Do one's eyebrows retain functionality should he survive a proper scalping?
A review of _One Hundred Years of Solitude_ would be nice.
Accidentally clicked on this somehow-so glad it happened! I was trying to find a The Road review. Will probably read this now, great review. I love that you referenced that great John Waters quote! Truth
rollership I'm going to start talking about cormac mccarthy on my channel if you're interested!
Why don´t you read John Banville?
"...war is the truest form of divination. It is the testing of one’s will and the will of another within that larger will which because it binds them is therefore forced to select. War is the ultimate game because war is at last a forcing of the unity of existence. War is god."
I'm so joyous you reviewed this!! When I was in high school(only three years ago), I was fairly confident in my writing ability, and then I read this book. When I got to the third page, I threw the book against the wall. I have been more infuriated, more envious, and more happy to read a book. I decided then and there I would do my best to become a writer. Thank you sir for reviewing this and adding your trademark wit and humor.
In terms of prose and making a sentence really spark the Irish writer Paul Lynch is very McCarthyian(with a hints of Vladimir Nabokov, and Saul Bellow) , he only has two books under his belt Red Morning in Sky, and The Black Snow but after a few books I feel he will really come into his own. Give either one of them a shot.
Good day sir and I can't thank you enough.
Juan Perez You're very welcome Juan, thanks for stoppin by. I'll check out Lynch, more soon.
Thanks to this review I can’t wait to read this book when the libraries reopen
Hey cliff would you ever do a review on the road?, I'm currently reading it and would love you to share your thoughts on it.
Haha!!! This is great! I was researching on what the status is on a Blood Meridian movie and came across the food thing. I know that thought would be looked down upon in this domain of youtube, but I was just curious. Your critiques are great fun! Thanks!
My two favorite books of all time are The Crossing and Blood Meridian, for completely different reasons. The Crossing gets me pumped for a good tour through some empty lands sleeping under the stars and campfires, and Blood Meridian is like reading an archetypal Boschian hellscape set in an equally archetypal American Southwest.
Only book I've read that touches them is the recent Hurricane Season--which I discovered through this here channel right here ;)
Great review, decided to check out this book after hearing James Franco's desire to adapt it to a film.
If you happen to read my favorite book- Brave New World-, don't hesitate to make a review!
Thanks and have a super swell summer
Agree with "archmage 164." Nice review Bradley! Read this book soon after reading McCarthy's Tennessee novels which of Suttree was my favorite. Loved Blood Meridian what I could digest. The Kid's demise was forewarned and The Clanton gang had better character actors than The Usual Suspects, Casablanca, The Andy Griffith Show, etc....Bradley when you can, please continue to delve into your introspect of Blood M.
That distant, awe-struck, shell-shocked look that's on your face in this video is the same look that was on my face the whole time I was reading this book. LMAO! :D I'm going to tackle The Road sometime this year. I'm currently reading The Handmaid's Tale. After that, I'm going to have to take it easy and read some Stephen King. Lol!
Should review Bataille and Henry Miller soon. Great Job friend, as always. Keep it up.
It seems to me that the judge is meant to be Mars, the Roman God of War. An "evening redness" could refer to a blood moon or to the red planet instead. The judge's views on war seem to underline the idea that he's the god of it too. Apparently, Mars is cited as being a nimble and light-footed dancer, and the judge makes frequent connections between war and dancing too.
Excellent analysis. There are many metaphorical connections one could make between the Judge and the God of War. Who created Mars (or all of the mythological gods for that matter), figuratively speaking, and what do these mythological figures represent as broader reflections of human nature.
Would you have said to the fighting nobles of Rome, or the the fighting leaders of the Norse peoples, that Mars or Thor were rapers or murderers of children behind a shield and spear or sword? They would have chopped off your genitals and tortured and hung you somewhere visible for an example for that, my friend.
I've always thought of The Judge as a composite of Lucifer, from Paradise Lost, for his grandiosity, Loki, for his seemingly random and at times trickster behavior, one of the Jinn of Islamic tradition, and most especially, the fallen angel Azazel, from Jewish mythology, The Book of Enoch; as Azazel is said to be the angel that descended the heavens and taught man to make weapons and practice war; when they find The Judge in the desert and he makes his crude gunpowder, much of that scene reminded me of Azazel, that and his War is God speech.
Wow, this is my headcanon now
Just finished this today. Amazing prose from page one.
I just finished the book and I loved it. To my chagrin without the introduction by Harold Bloom the shooting would have gone over my head. For some reason I imagined the bullet as going over the kid as opposed to through him. Anyways, what you said about beautiful violence is what I felt throughout the narrative. Especially when blood dripping into water is described as blooming flowers. Very good novel. Also, thanks for the Paradise Lost info. I have not read that yet but I will ... eventually. I'm thinking about reading the dual books that Mr. McCarthy just released. I don't think I could go wrong either way.
COR-MIC?! Wow! So is butter good for the hair? How did the audition for the Wild One musical go?
Just a quick question to anyone who loves this book, is blood meridian adaptable?
Great review! This is my favorite book of all the time. The writing is at times almost biblical and really beautiful. I found that the book is clearly very influenced by Moby Dick.
This was my favorite book for a long time. The Judge has to be one of the greatest literary characters to ever appear on the page. Is he the Devil? Maybe. I love how each of the men in Glanton's gang encountered Judge Holden before they formed their party (with the exception of Tobin). It's almost Lovecraftian, in that no one, not even the reader, is capable of understanding Holden and his ways.
EDIT (spoiler): I think it's important to contrast the Judge with the expriest Tobin, who serves as a kind of foil to Holden's philosophies, more so than the kid.
The volcano scene is so amazing. I also enjoyed the end, and the kid's final confrontation with Holden. I've read and reread so many passages from this book. McCarthy is a poet. However, it's difficult to recommend--the violence is so stark and uncompromising. There is no explanation for it. No cathartic acts of revenge. Violence begets violence, and so on. Maybe that's the point. Either way, great review. Ever read any Roberto Bolano? If not, try 2666.
I read this book 2 times in high school (almost a decade ago.) I had a desensitized morbid curiosity at the time but I don't know if I could stomach this book if I picked it up again. By what I remember wasn't there a part where the gang gets attacked by a big bear and it tears some guy apart?
In a way I wish this wasn't my first book of Cormac McCarthy's. I read it, was blown away and devoured everything else by him. But nothing comes close to how absolutely brilliant this book is. Excellent review, you've earned a new subscriber.
what did you think of "Suttre?"
Great review, Mr. Sgt. This is definitely my favorite McCarthy novel, and I'm glad that you shared your thoughts on it. I was wondering, what is your reading process like? e.g., do you jot notes in a seperate notebook while you read?
Nah I just read it and look up supplementary material if I'm missing something.
the audiobook, read by richard poe, is my all time favorite audiobook. please do yourselves a favor and listen to some of the clips on youtube and then get the full reading.
I can't imagine the prose being read by any kind of other voice. Truly the prose was coupled with its soulmate on that recording. A powerful experience
Blood Meridian is possibly the best book I've ever read. McCarthy in my opinion is the best American author of all time. He has a way of simplifying his writing without losing any of its poetic power and beauty.
What a breathtaking book. The judge does not abide. More Brando than Woody I would say :) Colonel Kurtz on steroids. Any thoughts on the end? and the cipher at the end? Just found your videos, love what you are doing.
Very much enjoyed your review. keep it up!
This is the most captivating book REVIEW that I've ever watched...almost as captivating as the book itself.
Books are piling up too fast, I already started Crying of Lot 49, Demons, The Confessions and Book of the Long Sun, but after those this may be the thing to read. It sounds really interesting.
I just finished this one hell of a book. What an experience... I really want to visit the setting
Do Outer Dark next! Also, how cool of you to edit out your breathing, but not your drinking. Nice touch.
What about War Poems by Siegfried Sassoon?
Thanks for the reviews man, keep 'em coming! Really enjoyed Blood Meridian, but could you just explain the Paradise Lost reference more clearly? As in, how is this piece referencing Milton? Loved Paradise Lost too, but it's been a while since I read it!
In paradise lost Satan teaches the fiends to make weapons to kill the angels
I guess since this was sold as just a review, and not an analysis, I'm satisfied with the surface level critique. But I would love to see you dive deeper into the text and talk about some of your favorite passages in McCarthy's master piece. Also have you read "Outer Dark"? I'm convinced that it can stand side by side with Blood Meridian and easily hold it's own, in beauty of prose, thematic weight, and powerful characterization of fascinating individuals.
This has to be the best book review ever. Can you review Larry Bond's war novels such as Cauldron, Vortex, and Red Phoenix?
Well done! A fun review; I second your sentiments.
Just started reading random books after years of not reading and this is best book i've ever read,and i doubt i'll ever read something as gritty or trippy as this.When we first see indians and he describes them on half page or so i thought something like oh my god this is insane and than some guy from crew says the same :D I felt like desert was main character and everything that happened was like fata morgana.Anyone have some recommandations for something like this one?
Try out some Murikami. You might enjoy his dark surrealism and dark humor.
Just grabbed me a copy last night, very excited to start this piece of art :) Picking it up as soon as im done reading The Troop by Nick Cutter (Craig Davidson)
I just finished it and was pretty blown away by it. Not really sure what to say.. like I'm in awe. I think it's probably the best book I ever read.
Nice review. Definitely agree with how you view the writing itself as "violent." I love McCarthy's style. At once obscenely grandiose in terms of imagery and still so controlled and sparse linguistically. I read The Road before Blood Meridian and I initially enjoyed The Road more, but as time has gone on Blood Meridian has really grown on me. Without a doubt one of the best endings to a book ever.
I read about a hundred pages from this book but I didn’t get it. I don’t know why people write such difficult books. No country for old men is one of my fav movies of all time. Any pointers on how to approach the text? Thank you.
This book is absolutely amazing.
Nice review of the beautifully savage book. It reads like the best prose from the King James Version of the Old Testament. I think of Marlon Brando, Colonel Kurtz, from Apocalypse Now, when I think about the Judge. Lucifer, from Milton's charming book, isn't as sinister, though.
Ales Kot is currently writing a McCarthy inspired book, Zero, for Image comics. It is a mediation on violence, which is influenced by McCarthy, William Burroughs and Andrei Tarkovsky. It is my understanding that McCarthy's next book will have his first female protagonist.
Is it a requirement to know 1850's history to understand this book? Because I'm extremely interested in this book, but I'm not huge into 1800's history. And what books should I read before and or after this book? Please help me.
+Angelo Tomasi Nah, just jump into it, see how it goes. If confused, get dictionary.
+Angelo Tomasi Short answer: no but it helps. It's set between the Mexican American War and the Civil War. The intermittent American Indian Wars and the California Gold Rush is going on as well. It's chaos.
I'd also recommend knowing what a Navy Colt is and just how much power it gave to those who could afford one.
There is a collection of notes available on Amazon that defines the many archaic terms McCarthy throws at you. I recommend reading BM with knowing those bare basics before getting it though. Mysticism is important in BM and the confusion caused by his word choice and lack of punctuation intensify it.
Ron Perlman would make a great Judge Holden. All bald and pale with red-rimmed eyes. He immediately sprung to mind when I read it.
Great shout! Vincent D'Onofrio came to mind when I read it.
I can't take Ron Perlman seriously...
Alec Gandy a pale hellboy
Good! I can’t wait to read this book.
when are you going for some Saramago?
And, I'm just finishing The Passenger. I'm so jealous of McCarthy's ability to imagine/ intuit my thoughts-imaginings, but to then communicate them, bang, with the power of being suddenly shanked.
Great review. Very powerful book. I did find the writing to be very cryptic at times. So much so that I found myself rereading sections just to find out "wait... What the fuck just happened?" I love this book.
Hey Cliff.
I just got my copy of Blood Meridian for which i waited for a long long time (considering that the novel is barely available in my country *Pakistan*). I found about the book when I first saw this review of yours a couple of months ago. Now it's waiting for me in my room and I am rewatching this review as a warm-up. To build up the excitement.
Thanks for the channel man. Keep rocking.
Hamza Zia Khan hit me up if you need books you can't find in Pakistan - maybe I can help!
Hey, man. Definitely yes. There are two books you've reviewed that I'm really looking for. I tried reading their ebooks but it's really distracting.
One of them is "The Conspiracy Against the Human Race" by Ligotti. And the other is "On Pain" by Ernst Junger.
Oh I'm excited to get into On Pain. How did Blood Meridian go for you? Pretty difficult read, hope you made it through
The only McCarthy I've read so far is 'The Road', which nearly killed me. I've rarely felt so exhausted and drained after reading a book as I did with that one. I can't say I "enjoyed" it, but it was quite the experience.
Maybe I'll try this one as well.
I'd love if you reviewed The Crossing! My personal favorite of his McCarthy's. Gets some flack for being a little drawn out, but there are passages so beautiful in that book it'll make you weep in awe.
Do you think I should still watch the reviews if I don't know the book? Because I love what he has to say on books I have read
Yeah man, especially, it's not like the review will be better than the book, just give you an idea of what to expect. You'll find all sorts of great stuff on your own.
+Better Than Food: Book Reviews well said
I loved this book, and especially the villain, Judge Holden, who is not only one of the scariest villains in literature, but is one of the greatest villains in literary history. He's up there with Bill Sykes and Randall Flagg, at least for me.
I like the possibility that the judge is the narrator
Could you expand on ur point about the reference to Paradise Lost? I
Aj Landingin
When the judge makes gunpowder, this is taken directly from Paradise Lost. Satan instructs his fiends in how to make gunpowder. So, the fiends are down in Hell strategizing, somewhat in despair over their chances against God's angels. The fallen angels are standing around Satan, and they're taking turns making speeches, and they've just heard a speech from a fallen angel who says, "We really need a better weapon. Otherwise we're never going to win this war." Satan says
Whereto with look composed
Not uninvented that, which thou aright
Believest so main to our success, I bring.
Which of us who beholds the bright surface
Of this ethereous mould whereon we stand,
This continent of spacious Heaven, adorned
With plant, fruit, flower ambrosial, gems, and gold;
Whose eye so superficially surveys
These things, as not to mind from whence they grow
Deep under ground, materials dark and crude,
Of spiritous and fiery spume, till touched
With Heaven's ray, and tempered, they shoot forth
So beauteous, opening to the ambient light?
These in their dark nativity the deep
Shall yield us, pregnant with infernal flame;
Which, into hollow engines, long and round,
Thick rammed, at the other bore with touch of fire
Dilated and infuriate,
shall send forth
From far, with thundering noise, among our foes
Such implements of mischief, as shall dash
To pieces, and o'erwhelm whatever stands
Adverse, that they shall fear we have disarmed
The Thunderer of his only dreaded bolt.
So, there Satan's saying, "Look at the world. You look at all these plants. The chemicals we need are in this earth." So, that is what the judge says, for his part, in like circumstance. The judge like Satan represents heroic evil.
I just picked it up in spanish and BOI is it brutal.
Instant classic in my mind.
I would have never thought to picture Woody Harrelson as Judge Holden.
Maybe if he gained 100 lbs. and a foot of height. Hollywood magic can take care of it, I guess, but I have a meatier image of the Judge than Harrelson conjures.
I was thinking Zippy the Pinhead...
Danny DeVito
You catch the Paul Valery references?