Coming from a background in writing it means I do have an affinity for films that are more dialogue-driven, and usually focus on the less technical aspects of filmmaking.
Taking place solely inside the apartment of our lead, Charlie, portrayed by Brendan Fraser we experience a week in his life as he attempts to reconnect with his daughter. It is a powerhouse performance that is rightfully being lauded by critics, but Hong Chau also gives an outstanding performance which is very much his equal.
Though, it is far from perfect, with the screenplay being an adaptation from a stage play meaning that there are lots of moments when characters walk into Charlie’s apartment at the most convenient points in time. A lot of the dialogue does unfortunately come across as being forced with characters revealing intimate pieces of information for no other reason other than the fact that the audience needs to know it.
From a technical standpoint it is rather subdued, with Aronofsky keeping all of the focus on the performances. The aspect ratio of 4:3 is a nice touch adding to the claustrophobia of being trapped inside of Charlie’s apartment alongside him, and also helping to create the illusion of him being this gigantic man that is crammed into the frame and takes up all of the space.
Taking place solely inside the apartment of our lead, Charlie, portrayed by Brendan Fraser we experience a week in his life as he attempts to reconnect with his daughter. It is a powerhouse performance that is rightfully being lauded by critics, but Hong Chau also gives an outstanding performance which is very much his equal.
Though, it is far from perfect, with the screenplay being an adaptation from a stage play meaning that there are lots of moments when characters walk into Charlie’s apartment at the most convenient points in time. A lot of the dialogue does unfortunately come across as being forced with characters revealing intimate pieces of information for no other reason other than the fact that the audience needs to know it.
From a technical standpoint it is rather subdued, with Aronofsky keeping all of the focus on the performances. The aspect ratio of 4:3 is a nice touch adding to the claustrophobia of being trapped inside of Charlie’s apartment alongside him, and also helping to create the illusion of him being this gigantic man that is crammed into the frame and takes up all of the space.
