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The Man Who Wasn’t There (2001) USA Films 1 hr. 57 mins. Starring: Billy Bob Thornton, Frances McDormand and James Gandolfini. Directed by: The Coen Brothers 
The Man Who Wasn't There Rating:  
E-MAIL GIANCARLO DE LISI Cinema is a medium in which consistency in the creation of great films is a difficult task. Yet the Coen Brothers seem to be the exception. Their film noir ‘The Man Who Wasn’t There’ is a perfect example of how great storytelling can result in a great film. This complex and intricate film is crafted with the most discerning aspect of thought as this black and white film exudes a volume of color rich in character, depth and emotion. There shall be those who may contest the film’s first hour as a slow and mediocre introduction. But the true brilliance results from the first hour as it slowly unravels and webs the viewer into a congenial plot that erupts in the second hour. Plot twists, remorse and an unexpected turn of events serve a fantastic treat in this subtle but interesting film. The Coen Brothers are relentless in their creations as they achieve a new level of cinematic bravery as they attempt to lense this film in a glossy black and white. Roger Deakins’ loyalty in cinematography as in other Coen films comes through as this film projects a great feel as the plot sets itself in the late 40’s. Even though the film is set in the 40’s, the Coen’s technique gives this film a contemporary feel as the drama is played out before our very eyes. Billy Bob Thornton portrays a simpleton barber as Ed Crane, a man who represents exactly what the title states. He feels a certain sense of loneliness and disillusionment with his life and seeks a new challenge in Creightom Tolliver (Jon Polito), a sleazy entrepreneur who has an interesting proposition. In order to earn the investment capital necessary for the venture, he blackmails his wife’s lover for the cash. In his seemingly simple plot, murder, deceit and an unexpected degree of a morbid atmosphere encompass this simple man who wanted to feel noticed and does becomes noticed for all the wrong reasons. The Coen Brothers do not achieve what they achieved in ‘The Big Lebowski’ yet they do attain a certain sense of elegance and class in storytelling that is clearly demonstrated in this film. While it may seem at times the plot is heading in different directions that is because the Coen Brothers are masters at misdirection. The film’s grim finale may leave some viewers to question the film’s moral tale yet if we analyze the script as a whole; its holistic feeling reveals a new standard for the new genre that is a Coen film. Click here to comment on this review or post your own thoughts. Giancarlo De Lisi © TheWorldJournal.com |
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