I’ve not read the novel on which this was based, but I have seen Patrick Marber’s equally awards nominated Closer, and must conclude that he is a bloody minded misanthrope, the U.K. equivalent of Todd Solondz, and far from the boffinish Peter O’Hanraha-hanrahan image I had in my head (British readers will know what I’m on about, all others should endeavour to find out as quickly as possible). This film is just plain nasty, populated entirely by selfish, often sadistic characters, pitiable perhaps but not exactly warm. The performances are indeed fabulous, and Cate Blanchett has never looked more radiant. But it’s just so blatantly nasty, there’s such a calculated mean streak and down-with-people viciousness that it leaves a sour taste. Add to that the fact that the major plot point seems not only clichéd but completely unbelievable and you have a deeply underwhelming experience, enlivened only by a touch of consummate British professionalism from cast and crew.
by Tom Huddleston | Source: 35mm print
13 Mar 2007 1:42 PM | Submit Comment
