I feel conflicted reviewing this movie as it was already over hyped, and now it’s a multiple academy award winner, on top of that it’s not without controversy much of which I agree with, but I just love this movie so dang much.
First of all yes, why put so many black actors and characters into a film and then relegate them to the background akin to so much set dressing while the movie is still as always mostly about a white guy or guys.
Second, why is it filled with political imagery some of it seemingly couldn’t have been more relevant to the current times and then when asked about it, be all, I’m not political. Kind of an odd choice.
Thirdly, I don’t know, how could a movie with so much oscar buzz and now recognition actually be any good as a film, as a piece of art?
I don’t know, but it is.
Perfidia Beverly Hills is a flawed character but she does have her moments and she is firmly in control in the power dynamic between her and that racist f*ck. He can’t get enough of her.
Secondly, Willa a biracial character and actor is central to the plot. Is it weird to set a story in africa for some reason and then not acknowledge that choice? yes but I don’t see anyone arguing that the Christmas Adventurers Club featured in the movie didn’t get enough screen time. Background characters can be very important to the story and still remain in the background.
Fundamentally I saw this as a story about love and relationships. About a fathers love, about persistence and perseverance. About funny moments that happen in life, even in life and death situations, when a hapless stoner stumbles his way into saving the day and reuniting with his daughter.
I loved the soundtrack, the oddly incongruous upbeat melody that plays in the middle of a relentless chase. I loved the car pursuit scene. I loved Benicio Del Toro. I loved the pacing of the whole thing, reminded me of being on edge in Uncut Gems.