Review of I Am Not Madame Bovary (2016) by Dawdlingpoet — 04 May 2022

One of my first thoughts about this film was that it reminded me of Wes Andersons 'Isle of Dogs' film, partly as its set in Asia but moreso due to the lighting, camerawork/cinematography and also the heavy use of tribal drumming, though there's narration present as well, which I think also applied to Isle of Dogs. It has a real quirkiness to it, this film. I liked how different scenes are shown in different aspect ratios, with the first part of the film almost entirely seen in a big round circle shape, that turns rectangular later. I also thought it had the feel of a traditional folk tale or similar.

There's some witty dialogue present and as I did enjoy the cinematography, with some nice landscape panoramas and sunrise/sunsets shown. There is an emphasis on symmetry shown in the way some scenes are shown, if that makes sense. It depicts a sort of battle of wits and I thought it was amusing seeing how those in authority squirmed with the prospect of how to deal with the unhappy wife (divorced or otherwise). I wouldn't say its an entirely funny film as such but the story does have some moments or aspects that may make you smirk or you may otherwise find somewhat pleasing.

If your not keen on reasonably slow and somewhat arty films then this may be a little plodding for your taste but if yout interested in quirky and amtospheric Asian films with an element of social commentary, then I'd say this is definitely worth seeing, yes.