21 Grams
How much does life weigh?
Overview
Paul Rivers, an ailing mathematician lovelessly married to an English émigré; Christina Peck, an upper-middle-class suburban housewife and mother of two girls; and Jack Jordan, a born-again ex-con, are brought together by a terrible accident that changes their lives.
Backdrop
What makes this movie Worth Watching
21 Grams reflects a post-9/11 anxiety and the search for meaning in a world grappling with loss and uncertainty. The film's exploration of faith, morality, and the consequences of our actions resonates with a deeper questioning of societal values and the fragility of life that permeated the cultural landscape at the time.
- The film features powerhouse performances from Sean Penn, Naomi Watts, and Benicio Del Toro, each delivering emotionally raw and compelling portrayals.
- The non-linear narrative structure creates a disorienting yet captivating viewing experience, mirroring the characters' fragmented lives and emotional turmoil.
- It delves into profound themes of grief, guilt, redemption, and the interconnectedness of human lives in the face of tragedy, prompting introspection and discussion.
- Alejandro G. Iñárritu's direction is masterful, using visual language and intense close-ups to amplify the emotional impact of the story.
Fun Facts
- The title, '21 Grams,' refers to the alleged weight loss experienced at the moment of death, a concept popularized by Dr. Duncan MacDougall in the early 20th century, though scientifically discredited.
- Director Alejandro G. Iñárritu intentionally kept the actors separate from each other during filming to enhance the sense of isolation and emotional rawness in their performances.
- The film was originally conceived as part of a trilogy with 'Amores Perros' and 'Babel', exploring the interconnectedness of lives through tragic events, although each film stands independently.
Available Languages
English
US
Title:
"How much does life weigh?"
Deutsch
DE
Title: 21 Gramm
"Wieviel wiegt Liebe? Wieviel wiegt Schuld? Wieviel wiegt Rache?"
Français
FR
Title: 21 grammes
"Combien pèse l'âme ?"
Italiano
IT
Title: 21 grammi
""
Español
ES
Title: 21 gramos
"¿Cuánto pesa la vida?"
Magyar
HU
Title: 21 gramm
""
Where to Watch
Cast
Crew
Reviews
21 grams the movie was such a beautifully constructed story.
It had the rawest of emotions that are intense.
Some may find the content a bit heavy but I thought it was pure craft.
The way the story unfolds into each other is fabulous.
It’s a film about the basics of human nature.
21 grams is the weight of your soul apparently once it leaves your body when you die.
Oscar Awards
Wins
Haven't Won A Oscar
Nominations
ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE - 2003
Benicio Del Toro
ACTRESS IN A LEADING ROLE - 2003
Naomi Watts