Joel Coen

True Grit

Without waiting for local cinemas to catch up with the rest of the world, I got my hands on a copy of “True Grit” – a new movie by Coen brothers, of who I am a big fan.

Every film they do is different from every other, and is a masterpiece of its own. “True Grit” follows the pattern. It is a western, with beautiful and authentic cinematics, colorful characters, excellent acting, and simple, yet unique story telling. The story itself is simple and straightforward – there are no twists as such. But it tells the story of people with character, courage, and will. It tells the story of the days that have long past, yet which is applicable to modern days. It shows people who lived in a very different world, yet were so similar to us.

A 5 out of 5 from me and a recommendation for home collection – you’ll want to see it this movie more than once.

Fargo

A few days ago I watched “Fargo” once again. I saw it before, but couldn’t help falling asleep somewhere in the middle. Thanks to many pints of beer beforehand. This time though I was hooked and watch it through. And I really enjoyed it.

Like most other Coen brothers’ films, this movie is funny and sad, easy to watch, but with something to think about. It is an atmospheric masterpiece with splendid visuals. The soundtrack is great as well. Lots of good acting. And somehow, while having very simplistic appearances an slow pace, this film feels rich and enriching.

5 out of 5, highly recommended.

Burn After Reading

I went to see “Burn After Reading” a couple of weeks ago. I had a feeling that it should be rather good, because it was directed by Cohen brothers, who directed, produced, and wrote screenplays for quite a few good movies (“No Country for Old Men”, “O Brother, Where Art Though?”, “The Big Lebowski”, “Fargo”, “The Hudsucker Proxy”, and more). Also, the cast for this film was interesting – George Clooney, John Malkovich, Brad Pitt, and a few other names you know. And, of course, there was a cool trailer.

The film was excellent, but it wasn’t quite what I expected. I thought (based on the trailer) it would some sort of comedy action, with a bit of crime. And it sort of was. But. I don’t even know how describe it. It was funny but very sad film. Or a very sad film, which was funny. I guess that just doesn’t make any sense, but that what it was.

Overall, I really enjoyed it. Especially with all the good acting, interesting story telling, camera work, and even more good acting. An 8 out of 10 and strongly recommended.

The Ladykillers

“The Ladykillers” is one of the recent movies that I missed. I didn’t want to see it as the rating was a bit low and the title was vague, but when I learned that Tom Hanks is in it, I decided to watch it.

Directed by: Ethan Coen, Joel Coen
Genres: Animation, Comedy, Crime, Horror
Cast: Tom Hanks, Irma P. Hall, Marlon Wayans, J.K. Simmons, Tzi Ma, Ryan Hurst, Diane Delano, George Wallace, John McConnell, Jason Weaver, Stephen Root, Lyne Odums, Walter K. Jordan, George Anthony Bell, Greg Grunberg
IMDB raintg: 6.4
My rating: 6.5 [rate 6.5]

This film is a nice criminal comedy. It is a very styly one as well. The cinematography is excellent as is the acting. The story is interesting too. I wish there was more humor in it though. As it is, the movie can be seen as sad at some places. But a very good overall.

The DVD contained an interesting mini-film about the making of musical instruments. There were few intervies with the guy who was making all sorts of musical instruments for almost 30 years, and who made guitars for such famous people as George Harrison and Kurt Cobain. I found this minifilm surprisingly informative and educational.

There were also a few gospel songs which didn’t make it into the movie, but which were very fine aswell.

The Hudsucker Proxy

There was nothing entertaining on TV, so I decided to watch a movie. “The Hudsucker Proxy” had the top rating from the heap, so I went for it.

It turned out to be excellent. I think IMDB is a bit off the line with “Comedy/Romance/Fantasy” thing. It is more like “Drama/Satire”. It is original and very stylish. It has this nice touch to it with everything you see. There is a lot of great acting from a number of famous people – Tim Robbins, Jennifer Jason Leigh, John Mahoney, and more.

The movie is filled with excellent classical music which is perfectly timed. It creates and changes atmoshere and film mood in just split seconds. Great work.

This is one of those rare films that deserve to be in the home collection. 9/10.