Review of Collateral Beauty (2016) by Mathieu P — 30 Dec 2016

I do believe many critics of the film especially those who believe it to be cynical are incredibly false. Any who would satisfy with a one line depiction of a film also cannot be serious in their critique however, so I would be skeptical of their opinions and professionalism if they Dis this film without valid proof or reason.

Many discourage the realistic personalities of the characters however two simple facts are forgotten. Firstly the subject matter is not simple therefore the characters would have an aspect to them difficult to relate with especially that of smiths who has veritably just checked out.

He is not so much a cynic but a lost man who has closed himself away in his despair who must find his way back to begin anew(Dominoes). Second is the title of the film, the film is almost equally about the seperate characters Surrounding Smiths.

Smith is not the protagonist but the vessel by which the collateral figures are realized. To view the film with the belief Smith is the focal point is betraying the story and being ignorant to the masterpiece it is.

I would argue heatedly of how the film phenomenally used sub text for the benefit of character development and double entendres for levity. It resonates with the brilliant dialogue made alive by near perfect performances which echoes real individuals beneath the characters.

All this mind you is played out upon beautiful set pieces that incite desire to go to New York and cinematography that makes the entire experience an enjoyable outing appealing to the eyes and soul. If there were any improvements it is that potentially the marketing giving away the films twist in all of the trailers (albeit the film cleverly isn't reliant upon it and turns the tables a few times to retain its affect) and that the interactions between smiths character and the aspects of Love Death and Time (more so the second interaction for each) feel a bit short and could be wanting depending on what might be added.

That being said potentially the audience who is willing to see the layered art and appreciate it is those who can relate and many may not be mature enough to grasp the film for its worth and instead discredit the realistic aspects for cynicism without realizing the surrounding collateral Beauty.

Truly the Title does lay out the beauty of the films themes.