The Party

'The Party (2017)', which tells the tale of a dinner party awkwardly gone awry, plays out in real time and relies solely on the dynamics between its seven core characters, who deliver dialogue that mostly does that debatably grounding and realistic thing of actually being about quote unquote 'nothing' - swapping Tarantino's signature pop-culture-spewing style with one that focuses on the main socio-economic and political views of modern Britain (issues which have their place and need to be talked about but are here almost used as filler). While it is fairly entertaining for the majority of its very short runtime, once you look back on the overall narrative it feels somewhat empty (and, dare I say, unnecessary), especially when you know where it leaves off and how many of its seemingly insignificant plot strands are simply left dangling. It's a darkly satirical piece and there are a few nice moments which stand out from the otherwise forgettable proceedings. It's also technically very well conceived, genuinely feeling like an encounter one might have at an unfortunate New Year's Eve party. 6/10.

This is an odd little film, but I did enjoy it. For starters, it's only 71 minutes long, essentially the length of a typical streaming weekly drama offering. Additionally, it's shot (very nicely) in black and white, features a total cast of just seven actors (including a handful of very recognizable faces), and takes place wholly in one house using only about four shooting locations there.

This black comedy revolves around a joyful government promotion announcement and the unusual cast of characters that arrive at a small private gathering to celebrate. Conflicts abound and the very smart dialogue runs from politics to pregnancy to life coaching, much of it snarky, droll, and dripping with sarcasm (not all these people like each other; we soon learn why).

It was a quick and entertaining film. Had it gone much longer, it might have become tedious, but it didn't get there. If you're a fan of smart adult banter and personal interaction and intrigue, you'll probably like this. The great cast helps.

I only watched this because of Cillian Murphy, and wasn't expecting much. The trailers made it look okay, and I don't really think a lot of comedy movies are actually funny. Well, I was surprised! I was laughing the whole time, and wished it was longer. Cillian's acting is taken to a new level in this movie, beyond what I had seen from him in the past. He was definitely the best character. Even the political humor made me laugh. The plot was also very good and interesting. The characters each add different types of comedy to the movie, and the dialogue is well written. I am excited to watch this movie again!

Stellar performances, 9/10 script (there is a little bit lacking in the ending), and an overall likability to all the characters. For the first time in a long time I felt like I needed to post a review, because it felt like my view wasn't represented. If you liked Carnage, this is for you: This is a tightly wound, small play, made for screen. The bonus of having close-ups and a definitive, select final cut, made this a real treat.

Shot in black and white and clocking in at just over an hour, it is one of the more original movies coming out of the Berlinale. Several elements stand out, like the production design by Carlos Conti (37°2 le matin) with its odd, detached feeling bringing to the movie, but also the daring cinematography by Aleksei Rodionov (Idi I smotri, Orlando!) combined with good editing makes the movie work.

So nice work in all sectors, but basically it is the actors who have to carry through in this dark comedy, somewhat difficult to define: Third screwball, third Woody Allen, and a third Britcom but definitely with a style of its own.

Potter herself gave the best synopsis by calling it a movie about ideals and convictions getting tested in a crisis situation. The really good script lines are dispersed among the excellent cast, although I do have a weakness for the role of Timothy Spall, such a great and modest actor, gripping the movie from the start onwards.

Why not rate this higher? I think it lacks a really great ambition, it is a nice ensemble piece, but despite the good things feels somewhat empty, more entertainment than art. The sum of the parts just doesn't add up enough for me, which often means the difference between OK and excellent.