Review of Anomalisa (2015) by Legitsalt — 06 May 2020
Charlie Kaufman is my favourite writer for film and television. In many ways, Anomalisa follows thematically with other entries in Kaufman’s oeuvre, but it also explores new ground. Kaufman himself is a man who struggles deeply with his mental health, something that is reflected in his work.
Anomalisa is Kaufman’s second directorial piece and comes during a time when his work was not deemed commercially viable, as such the film was crowdfunded. Despite being made on a shoestring budget, the budgetary constraints allow for Kaufman to push himself.
In other words, the unintentional constraints allow Kaufman to do more with less. Anomalisa is a Claymation surrealist film that explores many elements of human connections. The limited cast and simple animation give the film an air of authenticity.
Both highlight the creative choices made and allow for the thematic elements to become more defined. The writing is one of the most commendable elements of the film. It is filled with wit and subtlety, something that is present in all of Kaufman’s writing.
Anomalisa offers a strange, yet uniquely pleasing experience, it is rough around the edges but is just as easily loved.
This review of Anomalisa (2015) was written by Legitsalt on 06 May 2020.
Anomalisa has generally received very positive reviews.
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