November 16, 2012 in GENRES
ANNA KARENINA
RYAN: This is the new movie from director Joe Wright in which he reteams with leading lady Keira Knightley. He’s previously directed her in Pride & Prejudice and Atonement.
CAROLINE: I loved Atonement! It was my favorite film of 2007. Did they make magic again?
RYAN: I think so. This is a very stylized film; almost like a Baz Luhrmann movie in parts.
CAROLINE: Wow really?
RYAN: Yes. It’s very theatrical with a certain rhythm in scenes and a lot of choreography and creativity in the editing, direciton and design.
CAROLINE: That’s cool. It looks beautiful in the trailer. Then again, I love a period piece.
RYAN: It’s very strong in that department – the costumes especially. They’re very typical period pieces but with added drama. Some dresses look like they could have walked out of Project Runway or Sex and the City. They’re classical but with a modern twist; especially in the accessories.
CAROLINE: Nice. Sounds like it might be a contender for awards season.
RYAN: For sure. And not only the costumes, but Keira is really good too. It’s nothing new for her, sort of within her comfort zone, LBH. But the role showcases her talents from what you most expect of her. There’s a mix of Pride & Prejudice and A Dangerous Method, two of her best performances to date.
CAROLINE: There hasn’t been as much buzz this year about actresses the way there is about the actor contenders so maybe she’ll get noticed. She’s been supported by the Academy before.
RYAN: And can we talk about Aaron Taylor-Johnson?
CAROLINE: By all means.
RYAN: He’s so hot. I’ve liked every performance I’ve seen him do, from Kick-Ass to Nowhere Boy to Savages earlier this year… he’s becoming one of my favorite actors.
CAROLINE: How’s their chemistry?
RYAN: It’s real. I’ve never read the book but the story certainly is beautifully tragic.
CAROLINE: It’s been adapted to film several times.
RYAN: It’s a classic novel so when inspiration strikes, that’s bound to happen. And this incarnation is original in that its setting is changed a bit. Most sets are built within a theater and it’s very cool how they transition and use the space, kinda worth seeing for that reason alone.
CAROLINE: I’m intrigued. What about The Jude Law?
RYAN: He’s great. It’s so random to see him not be the hot guy but he gives an appropriate, understated performance and certainly looks the part.
CAROLINE: It amuses me when hot actors go after dull-looking roles. It’s like they’re tired of being pretty, like Colin Farrell in Horrible Bosses.
RYAN: Charlize in Monster.
CAROLINE: Totally.
RYAN: Jude’s not that homely but he’s certainly not a hottie in this. The performances and script are really good. That, in addition to its unique style, make this a great option for anyone who likes period films or romantic drama.
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