Manifesto

Acting is great and funny. Photography is gorgeous. The manifestos are interesting, BUT I would prefer to simply read them, instead of hearing those manifestos being recited for 2 HOURS by Cate Blanchet. Why? Because these manifestos, which are continuously being recited, are pretty intelligent and thought provoking. The content and it's message, evaporates to quickly when it is being read out aloud so fast. And there is CONTINUOUS reading of these manifestos for 2 HOURS straight, which is a bit overwhelming to comprehend.

That's my only criticism. More breathers in between would have been appreciated. I couldnt cope with even more manifestos after half an hour. However superb the acting and however gorgeous the photography, a simple written paper with the manifesto on it, would have more power and effect.

I'm convinced that the internet has erased all meaning from the word "pretentious." It once meant exactly what it sounds like, pretending to be something other than what you are. This film, along with all non-standard films, has evoked countless online accusations of pretense, which in the world of online movie reviews actually just means that the reviewer found it weird and boring. The film does not, and be aware of this is if you plan on watching it, contain a plot-based, narrative fantasy for viewers to follow to a satisfying conclusion. What it does is combine together short slice-of-life vignettes with the reading of various bits of aesthetic and philosophical manifestos. Its appeal will be limited to only people who find the rantings of tortured souls interesting. I have actually read quite a few of the bits that were included in the film, and I find the whole absurd reality of artistic manifestos and philosophical creeds fascinating, so I enjoyed the film. If you're not that kind of nerd, you won't like it. But is it pretentious? No. It did not pretend to be anything other than what it was: a presentation of some famous manifestos in combination with scenes from ordinary life. It is certainly weird, and it will certainly bore most viewers. As always Cate Blanchett's performance is incredible. The cinematography is impeccable.

Cate Blanchett once again displays her vast array of talent as she plays 12 different characters in 12 different settings decontextualising some of history's famous manifestos, bringing humour and new meaning to them, or perhaps no meaning, to stress a view of meaninglessness to them. There is no conventional narrative here but the film still has urgency to keep you watching through its compelling art direction and wit.

I didn't quite get it myself maybe partly cause english isn't my native language and the profanity was distracting but I think the general idea was about art being put on a leash with rules and manufactured for the consumer (like in the scene where the teacher CORRECTS the art of children instead of leaving it as it is) rather than being created as it is.It also seems to be about being too obsessed with glorifying old art and not really creating anything unique to our current time.

This film tells the story of twelve people who make manifestos about art and life in general.

The captivating thing about this film is that Cate Blanchett plays twelve different characters in various walks of life. It gives her the opportunity to shine bright as usual.

However, there is little story in the film. The scenes are merely there to convey the manifestos. It is a daring project, but it is probably too artistic for me. I appreciate the concept and the artistic achievement, but I cannot say I enjoyed watching it.