kflow

I was surprised by how satisfying this film is. I generally don't like the plot device of having a contemporary story parallel and intersect with a historical story (e.g., in Julie and Julia, the character of Julie drove me batty and I wanted her to just go away) but this film comes at that story strategy in an original and interesting way. The production values--the lighting, music, costumes, sets--are beautiful, clearly sparing no expense. Andrea Riseborough is compelling as Wallis and comes closer to making her "real" than any other performance I've seen. The film is committed to telling the story from the perspective of Wallis, but for me she is still hard to grasp as a person. Something about her remains closed and hard, vacant. I remain fascinated with her to some extent, however, and the film went a substantial distance toward making her flesh and blood. The acting is great across the board. I like that they made the Queen Mother rather a bitch. The film seems well researched and reflects an earnest attempt to add something new to the story of the Duke and Duchess. At a few points, I feel like Madonna is talking about herself, making the story about her, but that's not surprising. It was minimal and doesn't mar the movie. I'm not a Madonna fan, but I liked this film very much.

This is an innovative independent film that's mesmerizing to watch if you let go of plot expectations. It's a psychological exploration of a troubled young man's life, told with elements of surrealism and film noir. A cross between a crime drama, a drug trip, and a psychic meltdown, the film is visually striking with cutting edge cinematography and editing. The lead is played by Breaking Bad's Aaron Paul who is earnest and beautiful in the role. If you don't get hung up on realism, the film takes you on a mysterious and exciting ride. An avant-garde effort, artfully done, with youthful creative energy. It has the feeling of a David Lynch film, but leaner and meaner.