“To feel alive, we seek sensation — any sensation to wash away the cranky black sorrow! It leaves us for a moment, but then it comes back. And we have to do it all again. Only more, and each time, we ignore until too much is never enough. We are the already-dead, Little Dee! You and me. The question is… do you have it in you to make it epic?” – Lord Dementus

So, does Furiosa have it in her to make it epic? A resounding yes would be my answer. Despite his advanced years, George Miller shows no signs of slowing down and delivers another great post-apocalyptic masterpiece of visceral cinema. This time, the focus is not on our usual protagonist, Max, but on his co-star from the last movie, Furiosa. This prequel delves into her backstory, and while some might dismiss it as superfluous since we already know her fate in 2015’s amazing Fury Road, the film stands on its own.

Fury Road combined box office thrills with art house sensibilities and stunning cinematography to deliver not only one of the best films of the year but of the decade. Some will be quick to dismiss Furiosa as a tired re-tread of that story, but Miller uses his wasteland as a canvas to craft an epic mythology for the modern age in the vein of Homer or Virgil. Furiosa is a post-apocalyptic odyssey, and for those familiar with the classics, there is much to love and admire in Miller’s stunning epigraph to the power of myth and storytelling.

My anticipation for “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” was palpable. As the latest installment in George Miller’s iconic franchise, it promised a riveting prequel to the acclaimed “Mad Max: Fury Road.” With Anya Taylor-Joy stepping into the boots of the fierce Furiosa and Chris Hemsworth portraying the menacing warlord Dementus, expectations were high. The film, set 15 to 20 years before the events of “Fury Road,” offers a deep dive into the origins of one of the franchise’s most compelling characters.

“Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” chronicles the harrowing journey of Furiosa, from her abduction by Dementus and his Biker Horde to her rise as an Imperator. The story unfolds over a decade, highlighting her struggles, resilience, and ultimate ascension. The narrative begins with young Furiosa and Valkyrie picking peaches in the Green Place of Many Mothers, one of the last bastions of life in a radioactive wasteland. Captured by Dementus’s raiders, Furiosa’s life is forever changed, setting the stage for her epic transformation.

One of the strongest aspects of the Mad Max movies has been George Miller’s emphasis on visual storytelling. It’s the actions of the characters that define who they are, not so much what they say. Another strength lies in the role of comparative myth in the filmmakers’ approach to storytelling. With each installment and an increase in budget, the storytelling and production values have become more ambitious.

One might expect someone of George Miller’s age to adopt a more subdued and meditative approach to filmmaking, relying on experience and tried-and-tested formulas. However, with “Furiosa,” it feels like he is constantly experimenting with sound and image with the fervor and passion of a first-year film student. Yes, these movies follow an action-packed formula, but it seems Miller is pushing beyond his comfort zone and finding new ways to enthrall us with creative set pieces.

The roar of engines, the panoramic fantasy landscapes—the film moves along at a brisk pace but pauses now and then to let the viewer soak up the stunning scenery or a quiet character moment, which is often poignant and beautiful.

After Dune Part Two, Furiosa was my most anticipated film of the year, along with Alien Romulus due later this year. The film did not disappoint. The scale and ambition have grown with each installment, and the world Miller has built is as epic as anything from a galaxy far, far away or Middle-earth. However, part of the appeal for me with this particular wasteland is its cruelty and violence. In many ways, these films feel very similar in tone to Sergio Leone’s spaghetti westerns, with a lone warrior battling a world infested with wicked and corrupt evildoers.

The violence is shocking, the action exhilarating, and I was genuinely invested in Furiosa’s story. I was happy just to get immersed and lost in this world. Many of the action set pieces are simply breathtaking, but there are quiet moments, such as the leader of Gas Town re-creating John William Waterhouse’s “Hylas and the Nymphs,” that stayed with me long after the credits rolled. My favorite scene was the opening chase where Furiosa’s mother desperately pursues her daughter’s captors. She is such a badass character that she almost deserves a movie of her own.

Anya Taylor-Joy delivers a powerful performance as Furiosa, capturing her character’s evolution from a vulnerable child to a formidable warrior. Chris Hemsworth’s portrayal of Dementus is equally compelling, adding a layer of complexity to the villain. Tom Burke’s Praetorian Jack provides a nuanced foil to Furiosa, and the supporting cast, including returning “Fury Road” actors, enriches the film’s continuity.

George Miller’s direction is masterful, maintaining the frenetic energy and visual spectacle that define the Mad Max series. His collaboration with Nico Lathouris on the screenplay ensures a coherent and engaging narrative.

The script is sharp and engaging, with memorable lines that resonate. The dialogue drives the story forward and deepens the characters’ development.

The film’s visuals are stunning, capturing the desolate beauty of the post-apocalyptic landscape. The action sequences are meticulously choreographed, offering thrilling and visceral experiences.

om Holkenborg’s score is a perfect accompaniment to the film’s high-octane action, enhancing the emotional impact of key scenes. The sound design immerses the audience in the chaotic world of Furiosa.

The film explores themes of survival, resilience, and the quest for identity and purpose in a brutal world. Furiosa’s journey is one of self-discovery and empowerment, reflecting broader themes of resistance against tyranny and the search for hope in despair.

What did you think of “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga”? Share your thoughts in the comments below! If you enjoyed this review, check out my other reviews on the Mad Max series and similar films.