Only God Forgives (1 Viewer)

[Quentin]

I was pleasantly surprised to find I could rent and/or buy OGF on Amazon Prime this weekend, and I gladly sat down and watched it...twice.

The film is undeniably lush in visuals - all saturated in long, deep shadows, blues, reds, and neon magentas. All Bangkok at night - wet and seedy.

The film plays like a fever dream, and parts of it are. Very little dialogue (did you think Drive was lacking dialogue? You ain't seen nothin), and long, contemplative takes.

I'll say the psychology of the film is deep and interesting - a TON of Oedipal issues going on here along with some Hamlet-like impotence thrown in for good measure. But, it's definitely all about Julian's (Gosling) journey to understanding his manhood and place in the universe.

Unfortunately, the film is, at best, half-baked. Tons of psychology, symbolism, and intense performances to compliment the visuals. But, no real characterization or true depth. It's wannabe Lynch. And, while Lynch didn't always nail it, when he did (Blue Velvet, Mulholland Drive) his films were remarkable and unforgettable whereas OGF is only somewhat memorable.

It's certainly worth a look if you are an avid cinemaphile. If you're looking for another Drive, look elsewhere.

 

[Michael Elliott]

I picked DRIVE as the best picture the year it was released so I've been dying to see this one. After hearing about it getting booed at Cannes I was even happier.

I saw on VUDU a few weeks ago that this here was going On Demand but the local art house theater got it the same day. I haven't been able to make it out there yet but I'm trying to hold off for the big screen. If I can't get out there in the next few days then I might breakdown and just get it from Amazon (along with KILLING SEASON, another one I can't wait to see).

 

[Michael Elliott]

Full thoughts here:

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1602613/reviews-143


I went with a ** 1/2 out of four. It's certainly nothing I'd want to watch a second time and I don't think it worked but I still enjoyed certain aspects of it. The cinematography and music score were downright brilliant and should be remembered come Oscar time but I'd say that's doubtful. I enjoyed the actors in their parts but the film really didn't require them to give "performances" as there's really no one to root for or against. With that said, I'd probably recommend this film to no one. I can understand why most people hate it and it's easy to do especially if you're wanting a straight story. I think it should have been completely silent and it really does feel like those avant-garde films from the 1920s.

 

[Quentin]

Agreed. It still keeps me interested to see what Refn does next. He is a fascinating filmmaker.