Review of Closer (2004) by Mandela W — 10 Sep 2016

Mike Nichols, one of the greats in this industry directed in 2004 an interesting love story with 4 people. The film is closer and it begins with the first two individuals alice played by Natalie Portman and dan played by Jude Law who meet in the streets of London. They instantly hit it off and we learn a great deal about the two including the fact that alice is a stripper. later comes in Julia Roberts character Anna whom Dan starts flirting with. Larry Gray played by Clive Owen comes into the picture later and finds his way into this 4 way ordeal. all of them confront each other some fuck each other as well but they all deal with the heartbreak, the fun and passion that comes with this thing we know as love.

This is a really well written story. It's a lot like a play especially dialogue wise. the legendary mike Nichols weaves in these 4 lovers in such a fascinating fashion and makes one wonder about love in the world we live in. its quite funny how they all meet each other. Unfortunately it's something that never happens in real life but still pretty interesting to watch.

Natalie Portman supplies a good amount of intrigue with Alice. I like how she owned up to being a stripper and regardless of that she manages to have enough confidence to hook certain men in. She doesn't let this profession define who she is. She was the best out of this foursome cast. Portman and Clive owen have scenes were their chemistry was fantastic. Their scene in the strip club is one of the best acting scenes you'll ever get to see. Clive owen himself is pretty damn good here. his character works an honest profession but delves in his guilty pleasures. Like Roberts character he is also honest about his feelings. Julia Roberts is great here! she is a weak fragile woman who lets her heart get pulled in many directions. the complexity about her was interesting to watch. Jude law's character seems conflicted about the kind of love he wants in his life. Strong performance from him.

Good cinematography and good lighting too. Nichols usage of music to tell the story and mood of scene has always been my favorite element of his directing style. If you love Mike Nichols go see this film you will enjoy it for sure.