Review of Crimes and Misdemeanors (1989) by Jeremy P — 07 Jun 2009

I've probably seen a half dozen Woody Allen movies by now, and this one is, so far, my favorite. In fact, this might be one of the top 25 movies I've seen. It has a perfect blend of wit and philosophy, two compelling stories, and the perfect ending to tie it all together.

Crimes and Misdemeanors is two stories about morality and happiness, and how they relate to each other, our lives, and our traditions. It is heavily influenced by Bergman (though, admittedly, I've only seen The Seventh Seal), so it's a movie for which your brain has to be ready.

This movie is not as boisterous and hilarious as some of his other films, but it does manage to slip in some lightheartedness amidst its heavy undertones.