Review of Café Society (2016) by Spangle — 29 Jul 2016

Jesse Eisenberg is born to play the Woody Allen character in Woody Allen films. Neurotic, frantic, and deeply awkward, Eisenberg fits the role to a tee and plays it to perfection in Cafe Society. As with all of Allen's films, it explores the nature of love and philosophy, makes fun of those who philosophize, offers social commentary on Judaism, and rubs shoulders with the upper crust of society.

As with most of his films, it is certainly laced with witty dialogue, fun characters, and great acting. Led by Eisenberg, he once more shows that he has terrific chemistry with Kristen Stewart. At this point, the duo is like the less attractive, less charismatic version of Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone with the frequency of their collaborations.

The rest of the cast is quite good as well, especially Steve Carell and Blake Lively. Additionally, the cinematography is phenomenal and gives the film this dreamlike atmosphere that perfectly captures the similarities (despite perceived differences) between Los Angeles and New York.

As always, Woody Allen is still witty and great at creating realistic and touching romances, while blending in religion and social commentary. Though not rising to the quality of his best films, Cafe Society is a sweet, seductive, and charming little romantic comedy that may be a bit slight, but remains thoroughly entertaining.