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Reviews
It's Complicated (2009)
It's Hilarious
First of all, let me say that I am a biased Streep-fan, but this was truly my favorite film of the year (Avatar makes a close second). I know many people look at the cast and the story line and think "oh, that's an *older* people film". They are completely wrong! I'm only 21, have never been married or divorced, nor do I truly understand the pains of 'growing old', but I could still sympathize with all the characters in this film, thanks to the brilliant writing and amazing actors.
I was surprised at how funny this film was--everyone in the theater was rolling with laughter! Halfway through the movie, my companion whispered "I already want to watch it again!"
I really enjoyed the look of the film as well. Big thumbs up for great set design and costuming.
The casting was perfect--everyone was superbly chosen. Steve Martin is absolutely adorable in this role, and his puppy-dog eyes make your heart break--I haven't seen him play a character with so much depth in a long time, and I was reminded of how great an actor he truly is. He definitely held his own against the formidable Ms. Streep. Alec Baldwin was hands-down hilarious, and you actually had sympathy for his character as well, which only made the "choice" so much harder (because you know that in every movie like this, you've already chosen who you think would be best within the first 30 minutes). I can honestly say that I didn't want Meryl's character to choose, simply because I knew it would be heartbreaking either way. Meryl Streep was her usual brilliant self. This isn't one of her career-defining dramatic roles, but I enjoyed seeing her actually have fun, much like in Mamma Mia. She was so alive in this film, and it was a treat to watch her.
All in all, this a movie you should see at least once, if not three times. Nancy Meyer does an excellent job once more, and it's a definite must-have for my collection.
Ha-Sodot (2007)
An Intricately Woven, Beautifully Depicted Tale
I have been waiting to see this film ever since I saw it on Ardant's profile two years ago--and let me assure you, it was well worth the wait!
Noemi and Michal befriend the terminally-ill Anouk, who seeks their help in finding the "secret" to ending God's wrath against Anouk. But this seemingly meek outcast has several "secrets" of her own--secrets that have Noemi questioning her reasons for seeking help. When the seminary discovers this odd relationship, Noemi and Michal are forbidden to help Anouk's quest for salvation. Will the girls do as they are told, and follow the rules established by society? Or will they do what they know to be right, even if it is deemed "wrong" by everyone else?
Nesher does an excellent job of directing this film and bringing out the absolute best in each actress. Ania Bukstein gives a compelling performance as Noemi, a young woman torn between the traditional ideas of her family and the radical desires of her heart. Bukstein blew me away with her emotional intensity--she depicts Noemi as repentant, albeit headstrong, walking a fine line between piety and blasphemy. She should have won every award Israel had to offer for this role! With such a strong actress, an equally strong costar is needed--and Nesher was spot-on in choosing Michal Shtamler as the willful yet soulful Michal/Michelle. Shtamler, who apparently learned her French lines phonetically (although she could've fooled me, and I'm a French major!), gives a break-out performance that is equally stunning. And of course we cannot forget Fanny Ardant, the Crown Jewel of French Cinema. As usual, Ardant plays her role to perfection--she is absolutely mesmerizing. As Anouk, the tragic-muse-turned-murderer, Ardant captivates the audience with her frailty and honesty--all while weaving a web of mystery that leaves you wondering who exactly this woman is. Another great performance to add to her already-stunning resume.
I have only highlighted the main story line--Nesher, however, weaves in multiple tales to create this cinematic masterpiece. The rest of the cast also give great performances, creating unforgettable characters and breathing life into the already great script. The film is a beautifully executed portrait of the battle between mainstream society and free will, and what happens when the two come into conflict.
Mamma Mia! (2008)
Mamma Tanya--Baranski Steals the Show!
I must admit, when I see a good film in theaters, I say "That was good" and wait for it to come out on DVD. I left Mamma Mia! saying "Let's go watch it again!" The casting was perfect--I cannot honestly imagine anyone being replaceable. True, Pierce Brosnan cannot sing, but his looks make up for that. It was nice to see Meryl Streep, after countless Oscar nods and noms for her more serious roles, finally get to just have fun. She has an amazing voice, which she has exhibited in earlier films, but surprisingly this is her first musical. Throughout the entire film, Meryl seems like a giddy schoolgirl; you feel that she didn't really "work" at all. Amanda Seyfried, who cracked me up in Mean Girls, shows herself more than capable of taking the lead. All due respect to this star-studded cast, the show belonged to Christine Baranksi. She stole the show as the serial-bride Tanya. During her show-stopping "Does Your Mother Know", my boyfriend swore to leave me and search for Christine!
All around, this is a feel-good movie that will have you singing when you leave.
"Ma-ma-mamma Mia, here I go again...."