Movie violence is almost always physical, very rarely psychological. The Brave One, though, explores the mental trauma that lingers long after the bruises heal. Directed by Neil Jordan, this stars Jodie Foster as a New York City radio host who is attacked by thugs while taking an evening walk with her fiancé. She survives but is paralyzed by fear, and can either cower or lash out. To help her do the latter, she buys a gun. The ensuing story essentially follows the arc of a superhero saga – put a cowl on her and she’s Batman – yet Jordan keeps the focus on psychology, often by employing his usual poetic flair. Throughout, scenes of harsh violence are interrupted with flickers of earlier beauty. It’s as if Erica’s fractured mental state spills right onto the screen.
