Review of Inside Llewyn Davis (2013) by Bm2759 — 04 Feb 2014

I cannot understand why many people rate this film very highly. Nothing happens, literally. The end is the same as the beginning albeit with the addition of Bob Dylan playing on stage. Big whoop. I understand the meaning behind this; if you don't change anything about yourself or your situation then you're destined for repetition.

Don’t get me wrong. The music is quite good and captures the essence of that era. Isaac has a beautiful voice to boot. But you’re probably better off buying the soundtrack instead of seeing the movie. Each performance in this film is certainly impressive and I wouldn't be surprised if Justin Timberlake does a folk music album.

Back on the film itself was disappointed by the supporting cast. Everyone is quite suitable in their roles but we're not given enough time to care they appear. Llewyn is the main character and it makes sense he is the focus. However he is unlikeable because he is definitely annoying and unpleasant. I commend Oscar Isaac for nailing that. The two main women in Llewyn life have permanent PMS because they are always annoyed or angry so well done for showcasing realistic women. As for the rest they're onscreen and then they're gone as they don't matter to the story, considering there is little story to tell, they're just passing by. To the audience they may as well not have appeared at all. One exception is John Goodman as the vicious jazz musician. His appearance is a highlight for me, particularly on how he describes how talent-less folk musicians are with their limited, simplistic use of music: "C, G, C".... folk music hasn't changed much in 50 years.

And that leads me to this categorization of this film: comedy-drama. Really? I realize categorization helps people classify something but this is not a comedy drama. First and foremost this is a drama, with a different and interesting setting, with some comedy thrown in to lighten the melancholia throughout. It isn't laugh out loud comedy either, rather it gives us quite a few snickers, giggles and chuckles.

My lasting impression is that hype has helped sell this film and this hype has blinded many to believe this is a terrific film. It isn't. Appreciate the different setting and solid musical performances.