Viewed in
2010
Formats
HD TV
Premise
Billy Bob Thorton stars as a 1950's American barber whose plan to blackmail his wife's beau backfires with murder.
Loved
Roger Deakins' cinematography.
Liked
Strong performances, mistaken identity theme.
Disliked
The occasional slow parts.
Thoughts
A well-crafted film that with wonderful artistic visuals.
First and foremost, this was Roger Deakins' film. The Coens' decision for black-and-white was perfect. Thanks to Deakins' masterful cinematography and long takes, it helped the audience focus on the actors faces and their acting. These techniques helped portray the 1950's setting, but also give the film an old school feel. To be honest, I am at a loss of words to describe how visually intriguing it was to experience this film.
I enjoyed the acting, especially by Billy Bob Thorton. His silence was magnetic. The rest of the cast was very strong, with overall virtuoso performances by the likes of Frances McDormand and Michael Badalucco. Tony Shaloub's lawyer would have been the scene-stealer, had it not been for Katherine Borowitz as the beau's "quirky" wife.
As with most Coen films, it was playful and darkly funny. The use of mistaken identity was ingenius. As this domino effect tumbled upon character to character, the comedic and entertainment impact doubled.
Sadly, there were some slow moments about two-thirds in. That old school pacing did not help in those sections. But in addition, they were some seemingly useless.
This was a very underrated film, thanks to hypnotic visual style and performances.
What I would change
Cut out the weird trippy scenes. They did not add to the story, slowed the pace and actually distracted me from the plot.
