Review of A Serious Man (2009) by Luke H — 04 Mar 2012
More than a simple breakdown of a marriage tale, A Serious Man explores themes of infidelity, sibling rivalry, parenthood, career aspirations, religion, and ultimately, the meaning of life. The Coen brothers present a darkly comic look at what it means to be a husband, a father and brother, up-front and honest about the difficulties that the main character, Larry faces in his life.
A Serious Man is a mature perspective of what it means to be a part of the secluded Jewish community in the 1960s. Larry's life seems to be falling apart around him, and he seeks advice from his religious leaders to try and establish a path through life's obstacles, only to receive cryptic anecdotes and more questions rather than the answers which he seeks.
Parallel to this runs the plot of his irresponsible son as he approaches his Bar Mitzvah, which, to the extent that the film focuses on it, seems largely superfluous. Despite some flaws in the narrative, the film's production and performances are a success; being funny and facetious yet memorable and atmospheric.
Although the film is a commendable family drama, it doesn't provide any resonance in its themes. And if the message is to make your own conclusions, then I conclude that A Serious Man is enigmatic and lacking in a message.
This review of A Serious Man (2009) was written by Luke H on 04 Mar 2012.
A Serious Man has generally received positive reviews.
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