 |
| Rebecca (Johansson) and Enid (Birch) spying. |
Directed by Terry Zwigoff
Produced by Lianne Halfon, John Malkovich, and Russell Smith
Written by Daniel Clowes and Terry Zwigoff (screenplay); Daniel Clowes (comic book)
Starring Thora Birch, Scarlett Johansson, Brad Renfro, Illeana Douglas, and Steve Buscemi
****
Zwigoff's first narrative feature follows two high school graduates, Enid (Birch) and Rebecca (Johansson), as they search to find their place in the real world after graduation. Rebecca quickly finds a job, and Enid continues to drift while she takes a remedial art class over the summer. After they play a cruel prank on an unsuspecting loner named Seymour (Buscemi), Enid becomes interested in him, learning about his record collection, getting him a girlfriend, and making a controversial artwork in the process. Their friendship changes them both, but it is not without its rocky moments. While Seymour shifts focus to his girlfriend, Enid struggles to cope and fights with Rebecca. Enid's two key relationships are on the line, and she must do her utmost to keep both friendships alive.
Quirky indie films can be hit or miss for me, but this particular one was outstanding. The relationship dynamic between Enid and Rebecca and the one between Enid and Seymour are perfectly written. In other words, these characters talk like they should, each with their own ticks and ways of speaking, which makes their interactions believable and entertaining. Of course, these characters wouldn't be as fun and as authentic without their actor vessels in Birch, Johansson, and Buscemi. Birch is phenomenal as Enid because she creates a witty, scene-stealing performance in a lead role. Johansson as Rebecca is also impeccable, filling the shoes of a character who is more driven and more socially conventional than Enid. And Buscemi gives one of his best performances in the role of a nice guy who just can't connect with the opposite sex. The writing and the performances are terrific in this film, and are reasons to see this indie treasure.
Quirky indie films can be hit or miss for me, but this particular one was outstanding. The relationship dynamic between Enid and Rebecca and the one between Enid and Seymour are perfectly written. In other words, these characters talk like they should, each with their own ticks and ways of speaking, which makes their interactions believable and entertaining. Of course, these characters wouldn't be as fun and as authentic without their actor vessels in Birch, Johansson, and Buscemi. Birch is phenomenal as Enid because she creates a witty, scene-stealing performance in a lead role. Johansson as Rebecca is also impeccable, filling the shoes of a character who is more driven and more socially conventional than Enid. And Buscemi gives one of his best performances in the role of a nice guy who just can't connect with the opposite sex. The writing and the performances are terrific in this film, and are reasons to see this indie treasure.
Oscar Tally: Nomination for Best Adapted Screenplay (Cha-ching.)
No comments:
Post a Comment