portisheades

I have absolutely no idea what to say about this movie. I thought I would hate it. A really popular romance that all the kiddies loved? I was positive that I was gonna make it through half the film (if even) and scream " What a load of crap!". But that didn't happen. Now, I have to admit I was curious. I am a fan of Gena Rowlands and her late husband. But don't know much about Nick. McAdams is cute and Gosling was great in Lars...I really didn't want to see this movie. A friend recommended it ...so my husband and I sat down, watched the movie. And I cried. Yup, like a little sissy. The tears just ran down. In all honesty I can say that I was surprised and really inspired by this film. You don't find that many love stories that you can truly relate to. But you can with "The notebook". Anyone can understand the characters and basic trauma of their lives because they are ordinary. Most films are based on a platonic and ideal love, but in this story, we can actually relate with the characters and their relationships. That's why it's special. Anyone can understand it. Other than that, I have to say that the movie was beautifully made, set design, photography, etc...but the actors.... damn! Talk about chemistry!

So I watched this film in Sitges and just got back from the awards show where it received best cinematography (which I understand) and special jury prize (mmmm....). Yeah, the movie is innovative and has really great visuals. I'm into Gaspars movies, but this seemed more like an excuse to try out a new camera than an important story that needed to be told. The story pretty much ends at 20 minutes, after that, it's downhill. I was upset because I think this guy has potential, but this was a hardcore step backwards. I believe that movies exist to tell important stories. Important in the sense that you learn something. I want to walk out of the cinema a different person. But with this film, I walked out a very tired and unchanged person. I don't believe that cool camera-work and trippy images are an excuse to make a movie. The acting was poor and the character definition inexistent. The plot it minuscule and the message superficial. Best part: initial credits were brilliant. And I think the jury was blind to consider this film for a special mention over Dogtooth, which in my opinion is probably one of the best films of the year.

All in all, if you want some cool background images for an after party, this film is perfect, but for those people who need a little substance, stay away (or turn off after the first 20 minutes).