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Whilst the film does get somewhat lost 'in translation' and the fact it could have been one of the best films of all time, it does go that extra mile in being what is 'cult' cinema.
It is one of the few films I have witnessed in my time, as a freak cinema goer, that has received such a commendable rating in my eyes. It could have been a 10/10 if only one thing could have been achieved... the middle peak period could have been so much better.
Characters brilliant, Cinematography brilliant, Continuity brilliant... just a pity that fourth C, 'Content' couldn't have been that little bit more satisfying.
As mentioned I believe it does get lost, or somewhat dragged down by one element, that being the flat situation of the peak middle period being the expulsion of one of the characters because of 'lude' material displayed in his room. Whilst it does merit the young individual's choice in the situation, and the basis of the story itself, the whole point to this movie seems to be about same sex love in essence. I mean, look at the final scene! It outweighs a lot of he story in many scenes. Distracting it by this event - the expulsion - somewhat drags it down and distracts from the true essence of what this film really sets out to achieve.
If you want to create a film with a final scene, and many other scenes that primarily display homosexual interaction between individuals by choice, then why would you make the peak event that of complete difference? Regardless of this small pitfall - from making it an absolute masterpiece - everything else just fits perfectly. The honesty, the innocence revealed, as we knew it as children it compels the viewer into a realism. You feel engrossed in the character's lives, and their emotions so profoundly. Not to mention the brilliant acting by the kids! Outstanding! And all because of brilliant Casting and Direction as well! The Danish have always been well known for their wonderful storytelling and film making in general. This would have to rate as one of their legendary films.
This is one film I rate as one of my favourites of all time. Certainly not my favourite, but definitely up there. If I were to change anything it would be that element that should have been a sub story, and perhaps making a more moving moment one where the headmaster's son was caught in a situation of uncompromise to some people perhaps? In all, we probably don't know where the film-makers were coming from with this film. In some ways I don't anyways. And this is the only element that lets it down. Hindsight is great for one thing only... this instance now! I honestly don't think it's too taboo, it's just very honest and true. That's what makes it different and 'real' cinema! And unique in the sense that few films these days, even though it was in the late 70's, challenge the narrow-minded world governed by the US and the UK that kids these days have thoughts and feelings about being 'people'! The only thing that makes them feel wrong about themselves, what they've done and everything else around them, including what happens to them in their eyes, is what society tells them! And we can blame the US and UK for that! TOO protective!!! Get a grip you Yankee/Pommy B******S!!! And thanks for finally uncensoring it you twits!!!
score 9/10
mattinsa 9 November 2007
Reprint: https://www.imdb.com/review/rw1760602/ |
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23-3-2021 06:06:15