I don't think this is the finest piece of cinema , but it's definitely one of the strangest things I've seen in a while. Not fully original in concept but completely different in execution, if that makes sense.
It sets its standard (I think a high one) at least in terms of it achieving what it sets out to do) and maintains a graceful and lyrical quality throughout.
The script is particularly hard to follow, and seem purposefully obscure at times (at least as far as recent preoccupations in world cinema go). I didn't struggle with this but found myself dipping in and out of understanding which as far as I can tell, expanded the film universe to bring my own daydreams and musings to the story. I guess that is a way of viewing a film and I quite enjoy doing that as much as being told a good story. It's a different kind of movie experience and for that, I'm thankful.
I think there's an irreverent immaturity about the script's obscurity and it seems broadly relevant. This is the writer's and directors first work. But there is no sign here that the filmmakers are lacking in talent, simply time and resource and some of the production limitations do show on the screen in particular shots, scenes etc. Having said that the general level of artistic integrity was maintained throughout.
Some of the dialogue (particularly real life dialogue, outside of the "performed scenes") felt too theatrical for my liking. Perhaps stripping it back further would have helped the film's intention.
I'd like to particularly mention the costumes and art direction which were really beautifully rendered. The performances were also very interesting. It is true that some actresses carried their scenes better than others but because the film is about acting it didn't bother me.
I really liked the lead boy. He had a strong presence on the screen even though he was really only playing himself. A hard thing I imagine. Some of his improvised dialogue (as himself) was not so good but all things considered he did an admirable job.
It sets its standard (I think a high one) at least in terms of it achieving what it sets out to do) and maintains a graceful and lyrical quality throughout.
The script is particularly hard to follow, and seem purposefully obscure at times (at least as far as recent preoccupations in world cinema go). I didn't struggle with this but found myself dipping in and out of understanding which as far as I can tell, expanded the film universe to bring my own daydreams and musings to the story. I guess that is a way of viewing a film and I quite enjoy doing that as much as being told a good story. It's a different kind of movie experience and for that, I'm thankful.
I think there's an irreverent immaturity about the script's obscurity and it seems broadly relevant. This is the writer's and directors first work. But there is no sign here that the filmmakers are lacking in talent, simply time and resource and some of the production limitations do show on the screen in particular shots, scenes etc. Having said that the general level of artistic integrity was maintained throughout.
Some of the dialogue (particularly real life dialogue, outside of the "performed scenes") felt too theatrical for my liking. Perhaps stripping it back further would have helped the film's intention.
I'd like to particularly mention the costumes and art direction which were really beautifully rendered. The performances were also very interesting. It is true that some actresses carried their scenes better than others but because the film is about acting it didn't bother me.
I really liked the lead boy. He had a strong presence on the screen even though he was really only playing himself. A hard thing I imagine. Some of his improvised dialogue (as himself) was not so good but all things considered he did an admirable job.