Review of Get Low (2010) by Jesse H — 16 Mar 2011

"Get Low" is an underrated drama loosely based on a true Tennessee legend. It tells the story of an angry and misunderstood old man who isolated himself from society and then arranged a "funeral party".

.. while he was still alive. Duvall puts forth an Oscar-worthy performance, realistically portraying this tough (but increasingly fragile) old man. He perfectly displays a mask of nastiness and attitude to hide his sensitivity and devastation inside.

The storytelling is wonderful, building up curiosity about Duvall's past. The plot progresses slowly but I was okay with that, since the film is only 100 minutes long. The film does a particularly convincing job or transporting you back to Midwestern America in the 1930's through it's musical score and scenery.

Aside from Duvall being amazing (as always), I really enjoyed Bill Cobbs. He an Murray brought some much-needed comic relief to the dramatic intensity, though I was more impressed with Murray's ability to play the serious scenes so well.

The pinnacle of the movie occurs when Robert Duvall delivers a rivetting recollection of the events that shaped the latter half of his life. This is definitely a great character study as Duvall's layers are peeled away to reveal his 40-year-old secret.

"Get Low" may not be on many peoples' Top 100 movie lists but it's definitely worth watching for it's unique story and great actors (particularly Duvall, who was robbed of an Oscar nomination).

It is amazing that he still possesses such an articulate acting ability in his late 70's and beyond.