I think that this was a fine movie. I view the 6/10 score as indicative of the film having positive qualities, but other aspects seemed mediocre or bland. The plot and premise are quite understandable, with most of the film dealing with the consequences and effects of the main protagonist's actions. This is mostly situated through the main lead's own thoughts, with reflective and existential questions being brought up. I found the character interactions to be engaging and charming in a way, with the dinner scene in particular incorporating tension, realism, and raw emotion. This same sentiment can be applied to the main lead's interactions with the detective and her grandfather's friend, with new insights and layers being given that help reveals the mindset of the lead. I found the ending to be interesting. Spoilers alert! I think that personally, Vera came to terms with the murder. Her thoughts about the "nightmare" served as her own trial, with her past interactions with the detective, friends, and family providing evidence that would lead her to mentally absolve herself of any culpability. Yet, ironically, just when she personally absolved herself of the crime in her head, the detective and the police arrive at her apartment with blaring sirens being played while the camera pans at Vera's face. Vera has a face mixed with shock, fear, and yet a sense of acceptance. I have tried to wrap my head around the meaning of the film's final scene, and I think that acceptance fits the theme. I really wish I could have rated this film higher, but there were some aspects that were mediocre. Yet, at the end of the day, I don't think the critical reviews should deter anyone from enjoying this movie. It can become mundane at times, but realism captures the essence of art that most blockbusters will never attain. While not a masterpiece, I consider this film to be a worthy piece of art that emulates human nature in some intimate ways.
sometimes directors make such sanctimonious nonsense and the actors do so well but there's no way to really undo the fact that a terrible director who thinks they're incredible directed the film. that's this. worth it for the cast (especially sienna miller and charles grodin right in the FEELS) minus the unbearable droning of toback's completely pointless character which i'm 99% sure was just him talking about himself while sienna miller tried really hard not to fall asleep and not actually part of the movie?
Sienna Miller is typically brilliant in this film, and it’s a joy to see Charles Grodin, despite the bittersweet nature of his role. May you rest in peace you beautiful and talented man. However, the film is a disappointment, which isn’t surprising, as Toback isn’t a director I rate highly. This is likely to be his final film as the sexual assault claims made against him seem to have ended his career. I’m not grieving.
Shout by Bunny HarvestmanBlockedParent2023-10-10T00:13:52Z
I was describing my experience with this movie to my boyfriend and he said, “So it’s Linkin Park?”
:musical_note:“I tried so hard and got so far but in the end it doesn’t even matter.” :musical_note:
Basically though, nearly nothing happens in a painstakingly drawn out manner. The reviews in agreement on IMDb are a hoot.