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| Movie Review: Blue Valentine Alternate Title: Heartbreak Hotel
Story: Sorry to report that
if a character is so reckless that they lose their dog and then it dies
- I have little empathy for that character. This happens within the
first 15 minutes of the film and I admit to being pissed for the balance
of the movie. Young David and Cindy have been together for
several years and now have a young daughter. Their marriage is in shambles
as Cindy realizes the guy she fell in love with has no aspirations and
she, unlike he, has grown up. We watch as their marriage implodes and
in a non-linear style director Derek Cianfrance moves
back and forth in time to show the 'then' and the 'now.' Perhaps I am
jaded, but viewing the 'then' in their relationship did not bode well
for their 'now.' You do not have to be psychic to realize that their
relationship would crash and burn. Maybe if you are young, and have
not seen many movies, this film will interest you - but for me - I was
bored early and then often. The cuteness of this vapid couple wore off
quickly. The film was written by Mr. Cianfrance, Joey Curtis
and Cami Delavigne. Watch the trailer here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sYgr_iGATB4 Acting: Ryan Gosling as Dean does a fine job in being
both obnoxious and sweet at the same time. The sweetness is revealed
in his love for his young daughter.Michelle Williams
as Cindy needs to find some parts that lighten her load. Little Faith
Wladyka as daughter Frankie was adorable. Trivia: Derek Cianfrance began making movies at age
13. He later attended The University of Colorado where he studied under
avant-garde film legends Stan Brakhage and Phil Solomon. His first three
films, 'Five O'clock Shadow', 'Raw Footage', and Brother Tied (1998),
won consecutive Goldfarb Awards for best film. Raw Footage went on to
be awarded a Special Deans Grant for Achievement in the Arts, as well
as The Independent Film Channel's Award for Excellence in Student Filmmaking.
He directed, wrote, shot, and edited his first feature, Brother Tied,
at the age of 23.
Predilection: None
Critters: The aforementioned dog.
Sex Spectrum: The sex in this film is what gave it
its hype. Big deal, I say.
Soundtrack: Goofy
Visual Art: Scranton PA is not a visual delight in
this film. A few scenes were shot in what looks like, Brooklyn.
Theater Audience: About 30 other people.
Sappy Factor: 0
Quirky Meter: 0
Squirm Scale: 0
Drift Factor: I drifted often.
Predictability Level: High
Tissue Usage: 0
Oscar Worthy: No
Big Screen or Rental: Rental would be fine.
Length: Under two hours.
LOBO HOWLS: 6 |