Beginning with harmless errors, there were several anachronisms - the film is set in 1951-52, but the Roseberg execution and 'Gentlemen Prefer Blondes' occurred in 1953. Not that the anachronisms are at all relevant, they are intended merely to put the viewer in the frame of mind of the 50's and serve that purpose admirably. I agree with the previous poster's commentary as to the one-sided nature of the plot's theme. In addition, the film moves predictably and at a consistent and dull tempo, boring the viewer. However for the more educated viewer, visually the film is very well done. The lighting, spacing, and angles of Robert De Niro relative to other characters and objects give the intended sense of alienation.. Along with the interesting editing, that was enough to keep me watching this film until the end.
Reviews
2 Reviews
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(1999)
Pretty well done: a 7. Effective and nice coupling of visuals, editing and direction for thematic impact.
3 September 1999
An interesting film, especially visually. Flashing lights, rapid editing and a carefully constructed confused style add to the atmosphere and the immersion of the viewer in the hectic world of the characters. An amusing storyline keeps up the viewer's interest, and almost surprisingly, one begins to identify with the character's and their attempts to rectify their situations. The repetition of the same story told in several different ways might be dull to some, but not to this viewer.
I might be digging too deep paralleling one of the images of the film to that of the naked mother scene in "The Graduate". Only this time, it is with a different twist to modernize it. Unfortunately, while in "The Graduate" one can feel the shock of the naked wife ... here it is just a surprise. A closer camera and tighter frame might have been more effective, hopefully drawing the viewer deeper into that particular moment.
That was my one major objection (actually there were a few others but they are pretty minor). Graded holistically I would give this film a "7." (I'm a tough grader.) It made it's points in amusing and effective ways, falling short in a couple places but overall pretty well done. Visuals, editing and the thematic aspect of the film tied nicely together for a film that has meaning in addition to it's entertainment value.
I might be digging too deep paralleling one of the images of the film to that of the naked mother scene in "The Graduate". Only this time, it is with a different twist to modernize it. Unfortunately, while in "The Graduate" one can feel the shock of the naked wife ... here it is just a surprise. A closer camera and tighter frame might have been more effective, hopefully drawing the viewer deeper into that particular moment.
That was my one major objection (actually there were a few others but they are pretty minor). Graded holistically I would give this film a "7." (I'm a tough grader.) It made it's points in amusing and effective ways, falling short in a couple places but overall pretty well done. Visuals, editing and the thematic aspect of the film tied nicely together for a film that has meaning in addition to it's entertainment value.
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