Thursday, September 5, 2013

Frances Ha

Writer/Director Noah Baumbach teams up with his 'Greenberg' star to create this delightful film.
This is one of those films that is very much character driven. We follow the life of Frances as she struggles with work, friendships and love. That is basically the plot. I found myself not realizing that there was a plot to speak of. This gives the film a more natural feel and the character of Frances feels like a real person. In most films you can see each plot point coming and learn to expect them. But with this film they are pretend in a more free flowing way so that you do not see them coming. Frances is such a delightful character that you love to spend time with her. We come to know her quite well and share her struggles. I admit that she has a very free spirit type life style which scares me but when you have someone who is as charming as this you don't seem to mind. The way Frances pursues her dreams is also one of the more refreshing elements of the film. Do not let the fact that the film was made in black and white turn you off either. It does give a very 'Woody Allen feel' to it but that is a good thing.
Greta Gerwig is a brilliant actress. I admit that her range so far does not seem very large as she plays pretty much the same type of character in all her films but she does have a great deal of natural charm which makes her a delight to witness. I also like her more natural comedy style where she makes jokes in a more offhanded way. The film is mostly about Frances so Greta gets most of the screen time but a few of her co-stars do lend some great support.
If your sick of the carefully choreographed films that where each event feels carefully planned then this is the film for you.  

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