Review of Blue Jasmine (2013) by Valerie P — 05 Sep 2014

It seems that Woody Allen never tires of exploring new territory. This is probably the least "Woody Allen-ish" film he has ever made; and still it landed rave reviews and top rate awards. You can still hear Allen's voice in some of the dialogue scenes; and of course there is the black back-drop opening credits with the familiar jazz classics playing - setting the scene.

In essence this is the story of a middle-aged woman that is suffering a nervous breakdown. At the height of her glory she had it all, but Jasmine's husband cheated on her and then got carted off to jail. Now single and penniless, Jasmine goes to stay with her estranged sister and tries to come to grips with her new reality.

Cate Blanchett really earned that Oscar. She pulls off scatty, deluded, and paranoid incredibly well. I've never seen her act like this before. It seems a real labor of love.

I may not have been completely blown away by the story on a personal level, but that in no way decreases its merit. It is real, in that way that Allen is so perfect at conjuring a sense of "realness". Recalling the details of the story after a time may prove difficult, but it's the character's depths that stay with you.

I am excited to see where Woody will take us next. Such prolific writing, original ideas, and ideal casting truly deserves sincere recognition.