Cassandra's dream

rajdoctor

Woody Alen is a veteran. I have seen several movies of his, and sometimes I find his movies too verbose and that is why I do not get too keen to go and see his movies. There is talk, talk and more talk – everyone talks, there is no breathing space, silences. That is his style. I won't say I do not like that – but I have to make a special effort to go and see his movies. He has left a different genre of cinema for viewers to relish.

This movie is about two brothers – Ian (Ewan McGregor) and Terry (Colin Farrel). Ian helps his father in the restaurant business and has ambition of becoming a big hotelier in US. Terry is a vehicle mechanic and a gambler – into poker and races – wins some / looses many. Ian boastfulness lands him showing his love by financially catering (with no money in his pocket) to an upcoming stage actress who dreams of making it big in Hollywood; whereas the losses of Terry land him up in a huge debt. Their US based uncle Howard (Tom Wilkilson) gives a deadly offer to both of them – murder one of his associates to save him from business bankruptcy. Hesistanty Ian and Terry agree and execute the murder, but the guilt of murder depresses Terry, so much that Howard and Ian plan to murder him. What happens is the suspense I will keep for you to see it for yourself.

Like I said earlier, this movie is also verbose and talkative, but I think this is one of the best movies Woody Allen has made. It is a different genre of subject – a bit dark, mystery and murder, and keeps you weaved into the narrative from the word GO.

Ewan and Colin as brothers are fabulous and the chemistry in between are very good, their looks, moves, talk, and body language suits their aspirations and fears. Ewan looks so real with his getup and emotions that one empathises with his presence. Tom Wilkilson in the short role does justice. Sally Hawkins as Terry's wife and Ashley Madeke as Ian's lover are also great.

The setting of story in London is captured beautifully. Musical score is minimal and used only wherever necessary.

Writer and director Woody Alen has done a great job in rewarding his audiences with a Shakespeare style drama.

A good movie, go and watch it.

(Stars 7 out of 10)

score 7/10

rajdoctor 6 June 2008

Reprint: https://www.imdb.com/review/rw1887373/