Review of Barton Fink (1991) by Vagelakis — 28 Aug 2011

After watching it once more, I am ready to give Barton Fink a five star rating. This is truly a gem among classic films, and the Coen brothers' best to date.

Labeled as a satire, many would say that Barton Fink is a take on how the writer strives to become closer to what he writes about (this case being the common man) but never ends up quite grasping the concept.

Don't get me wrong, I see that. After all, it is the plot synopsis of the whole movie. But underneath its clever facade is a deeper message, a darker message. And if you pay attention to all of the minute details, you might understand what Joel and Ethan are hinting at.

Barton Fink is wonderful, but only for a certain audience. There are those who will be bored and unimpressed by the atmosphere and the subtle manner in which the story and its messages are presented. This is not their kind of film.

This is our kind of film, fellow movie-lover. Enjoy it while it lasts.