Friday, 28 March 2014

Film shorts Feb/Mar

Scarlett lays eyes on planet Glasgow

A good batch this month, likely to be well represented in the year's end list.

Inside Llewyn Davis
Clever, sensitive, funny. The Coens doing what the Coens do best, very well.

The Grand Budapest Hotel
Film as meticulously crafted tapestry. Utterly charming rollercoaster of a shaggy dog story, snappily told. Up there with The Fantastic Mr Fox and Royal Tennenbaums among Wes Anderson's best.

20 Feet From Stardom
Entertaining doc about the unheralded backing singers who have been in the background of many classic records since the 60s. Inspiring and touching in parts but clunkily turns into an unsubtle promo for Judith Hill about 2/3 of the way through. An Oscar, really?

Under The Skin
Fantastic adaptation, very loosely based on the book. Scarlett perfect as an alien seconded to Glasgow. Much to say about modern society, human isolation and interaction, and the role of women. Visually compelling, innovative use of non-actors, outstanding soundtrack. Great.

American Hustle
Entertaining 70s romp, based on true events. Amy Adams outstanding, Jennifer Lawrence lives up to hype, but Bradley Cooper and Christian Bale chew up the scenery. Funny, exacting in period detail, cool music (hey it was the 70s). Like candyfloss - sweet, light and fluffy.