#140RVW
I haven’t seen them all, so I’m not saying the other nominees shouldn’t win Best Picture, I’m just saying that this one should. Masterful…
What’s more:
Let’s get the obvious out of the way: this is an amazing film that deserves all of its praise. It is a captivating story with emotion and feeling and it is a pleasure to watch.
Filmmakers historically have fallen in love with the midwest, and it’s no secret why. The wide-open vistas and endless horizons provide the perfect backdrop for long shots and artsy photography. It’s an instant movie set; just add a few solitary cars and play some atmospheric music and you’ve got a metaphor for life and an “important film”.
So I’m torn; while the black & white photography of cinematographer Phedon Papamichael is unquestionably beautiful, I’m not entirely convinced it couldn’t have been achieved by any DP alive with a wide lens and grainy film stock. The first thing I thought when leaving the theater was “if that was shot in color we wouldn’t have even heard of this movie”. I don’t know what that says exactly. The use of black & white is always subject to some criticism and claims of pretentiousness, and it generally deserves it. It can be a beautiful art form and design choice, but it can also be a calculated, even cynical attempt to elevate the perceived “arty-ness” of a movie by pompous auteurs. I truly don’t know which one this film is.
I can tell you that the original screenplay by Bob Nelson is truly inspired and excellent. The dialogue is consistently fantastic and engaging, and nicely balances the drama and comedy. Story took some unexpected turns that kept it fresh, just as I was wondering how they were going to keep the movie engaging. Oscar worthy.
In terms of the acting, Bruce Dern is exactly as good as you’ve heard, but it’s June Squibb who should really walk away with a statue. Will Forte is really solid in his first dramatic role, far better than expected, and Bob Odenkirk is his usual great self.
Poster:
Trailer:
Bechdel Test:
Pass
| Main Cast | Bruce Dern Woody Grant, Will Forte David Grant, June Squibb Kate Grant, Bob Odenkirk Ross Grant |
| Rating | R |
| Release Date | Fri 24 Jan 2014 UTC |
| Director | Alexander Payne |
| Genres | Adventure, Drama |
| Plot | An aging, booze-addled father makes the trip from Montana to Nebraska with his estranged son in order to claim a million-dollar Mega Sweepstakes Marketing prize. |
| Poster |  |
| Runtime | 115 |
| Tagline | |
| Writers | Bob Nelson (written by) |
| Year | 2013 |
