Review of Igby Goes Down (2002) by Kylie M — 24 Jun 2009

I've never understood all the hype about Catcher in the Rye . . . a moderately well-written book that tells a rather uninteresting story which leads to no concrete conclusions. Knowing this information, one might rightly question the forthcoming review of a film that for all intents and purposes is a modern cinematic retelling of Salinger's tome. Ibgy Goes Down is a surprisingly touching and funny film that succeeds in spite of (or because of) its cynical and unempathetic tone.

Now, few will deny that this film is filled with baseness and vulgarity well off the charts. Yet, here is what else it has (which Catcher in the Rye seemingly lacks): heart. I wouldn't disagree with anyone who claimed Igby is a self-righteous, foul-mouthed, bitter, unkind, sad wretch of a protagonist. As true as this may be, what kept me in this film and routing for this character is the fact that, in spite of his attempts not to, Igby is also caring and forgiving and (yes) loving. If anything, this film is about a character desperately trying not to care, but who so evidently does; and, more so, who is in deep need of someone to genuinely care for him.

I have nothing but the highest praise for writer/director Burr Steers whose screenplay is brilliant. The dialogue is smart (even when crude) and Steers understands the power of silence as much as the spoken word (which is amazing for a first time writer/director). Kieran Culkin, as Igby, makes the entire film go round. Without his understated, yet below-the-skin thunderous, performance, this film would fail to connect. Bravo to the entire creative team who took Igby down so that we could go up. For those who can stomach a fair bit of darkness before a sliver of light, I whole-heartily recommend this film.