Review of Breaking and Entering (2006) by Hugo S — 20 Dec 2008

BREAKING AND ENTERING (2007).

Directed by Anthony Minghella.

Starring Jude Law, Juliette Binoche, Robin Wright PennAnthony Minghella's latest effort is a sophisticated film about relationships. It build itself very slowly and the plot is kind of not making sense at first for a film with such a subject. There are some good dialogues but as usual with Minghella there is an annoyance in the tone of the film that is hard to get over.Basically this film tells the story of an architect who lives a happy life with his family and all the complications that come with it. He is also an architect and has to deal with his personal things getting stolen in his office. Soon he starts to follow the thief and begins a relationship with his mom.Breaking and Entering has some kind of metaphorical double meaning that is explained with a lack of subtlety right about halfway through the film by Jude Law's character.All three main supporting lady give great performances, Robin Wright Penn is solid, Juliette Binoche seems to be better here than in her native language and Vera Farmiga proves that she deserves to be known.The film feels a bit too long - it helps character developpment though - its kinda pointless and almost boring to a certain extent, its not pretentious but it feels like we never care about the characters which isnt really good. Although there is some racial comment and also some depiction of the working class but that doesnt go far enough and it falls flat.Near the end, Jude Law's character takes responsibility for his action and that suddenly upgrade the film a notch in terms of quality. Not for everyone but an interesting character study.