Thursday, October 4, 2012

Brick (Blog 6)

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/7/73/Brickmovieposter.jpg
This week I had the pleasure of viewing the film Brick starring rising young actor Joseph Gordon Levitt well known for his role as Thomas Hanson in the quarky, hipster hit (500) Days of Summer. The film centers around the troubled, angsty, and brilliant-minded Brendan Fyre and his involvement in a dangerous drug deal involving his ex-girlfriend Emily. Brendan tries to help Emily and protect her from the dangerous dealings; realizing she is in over her head. Yet, Emily shuns Brendan and meets her fate at the hands of an unknown culprit. Happening upon the dead body of his lover, an angry and devastated Brendan sets on a quest to find the people responsible for Emily's death and, "break a couple teeth" along the way.
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The film takes on a gritty neo-noir style and takes place in a suburban, high school setting. Director Rian Johnson takes on an interesting scene by throwing high schoolers into a dark and gritty underworld filled with sex, drugs, violence, and greed. The main character is staged as the stage detective film hero. He is smart, cunning, charming, confident, and always is one step ahead. Yet there is a vulnerability and even relatable weakness to Brendan that gives a certain twist to the character and and some of the events of the movie. Brendan's character is definitely the most likable and gives alot of edge to the film but the supporting cast is also very interesting and every character is always throwing a new twist into the plot. Most characters are fillers but Brendan and the main cast do go through a lot of development and keep the viewer posted. At times characters seem one dimensional or unnecessary but at times the viewer has to ask themselves what different characters motives are or what they'll do next. The plot is very engaging as well. Mainly the plot is character driven since it is a detective story but the viewer is always asking what will happen next. There are lots of twists and turns, and in an somewhat ironic manner the movie tends to make fun of itself. The setting of course is in a suburban high school which in many ways helps to fuel the irony and provide a subtle sort of comic relief amongst the otherwise dark and high intensity plot.
Altogether the film highly succeeds where it needs to and then some. The main characters are very interesting and engaging especially considering the neo-noir setting. Any lover of old cheesy detective films will appreciate the clever twist on the memorable genre. Cinematography and filming style are great and really establish the tone and familiar feel that the film presents. Plus the plot is engaging and all the twists and turns ultimately leave you with a satisfying ending that leave your mind rattling with questions. Brick is definitely a must see for any movie goer.

1 comment:

  1. To be honest I never even heard or even knew that this movie “Brick” existed. However reading your evaluation and summary of the movie I can get a crystal clear visual on what the whole movie portrays. The movie seems interesting with a lot of drama and excitement. Being fond of movies that involve mystery and investigation I probably will check out this movie one day. I liked how you involved the major details of what goes on for people like me who have never heard of the movie. Also on how all the characters involved in the movie fit well together. You then explain the genre of the movie, which is a mystery plus dramatic with a hint of comedy. The picture does justice as well to capture the main character as how he looks like a nerdy kid, but now is ripping teeth out to find out who killed his lover. The movie seems like the type that just wants the viewers to be on their toes wondering what comes next. All in all the blog of the “Brick” was amusing and enjoyable to read, the movie seemed interesting. Plus you had many key components on what you thought were important for the reader.

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