Review of Biutiful (2010) by Dawdlingpoet — 24 Nov 2021

I thought this film would be nice for a special day/ocassion - I had a feeling it would appeal to me quite a lot. Its certainly very grim and I suppose that was to be expected but if anything it was even more sort of despairing and bleak than I'd expected - its less philosophical (about death) and more an almost character based diary (although the precise days aren't specified to the viewer but otherwise the analogy works) of the sad circumstances he's faced with and has to adapt to, with mistakes unfolding along the way.

It covers themes including illness, forgiveness and exploitation.

It has to be said that Javier Bardem does give an outstanding performance as the main character, Uxbal. His stoicism and determinism is certainly respectable. I should perhaps also point out that this film does include some quite shaky/jerky camerawork, which may frustrate some people - I think its to give it that sort of regular, street shot, urban feel to it - its not at all a big glitzy Hollywood film, of course. There is a poignancy to it, even though it is really quite subtle I suppose.

I would recommend this film, as long as you know its quite a bleak watch.