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| Punch Drunk Love 4 of 10 |
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| Directed by Paul Thomas Anderson Cinematography by Robert Elswit Adam Sandler Emily Watson Philip Seymour Hoffman Luis Guzm�n |
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| This was the second PT Anderson film I have seen. And this one was almost as much of a disappointment to me as Magnolia was a revelation. Although Anderson�s extraordinary directorial ability is still very much apparent, his story-writing this time around is pretty weak. Magnolia was incredibly bizarre, filled with absurdly believable characters and events, and pulled it all together for a great conclusion. This one was incredibly bizarre, filled with absurdly believable characters and events, and never pulled it together at all. It seemed to just fade away towards the end, right after the characters get to Hawaii. I think the problem was that Anderson became obsessed with telling a �traditional� love story in a non-traditional way, and it forced him go against the grain of the very characters he had created. Technically, a masterpiece � which I have come to expect from Anderson. Some amazing visuals, and wonderful camerawork. The cast was also top-notch, even if they were all recognizable from all Anderson�s other films. Emily Watson was a pleasant surprise; she needs to start getting meatier roles. And Sandler was excellent. (Wait. Did I just say that?) His Barry Egan was one of the more interesting characters I have seen in some time, and certainly the most interesting of Sandler�s career. Much to like here, but somehow it feels like Anderson just missed.
�I didn't ask for a shrink - that must've been somebody else. Also, that pudding isn't mine. Also, I'm wearing this suit today because I had a very important meeting this morning and I don't have a crying problem.� |
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