Review of Inside Llewyn Davis (2013) by Maksim B — 15 Apr 2014

Inside Llewyn Davis is a strange, melancholic and extremely well-crafted period piece of cinematography. A polarizing mixture between tragedy and a dark comedy, it is a gripping story bolstered by solid indie-style performances, beautiful music score and the typical magic touch of the Coen brothers. Despite the slightly higher than necessary levels of pretentiousness and insufficient characters development, this movie is a pleasantly rewarding and thoughtful delivery.

Set in the beginning of the 1960s, the story is centered on Llewyn Davis, a folk musician who is desperately trying to make a living out of music and to become part of the profitable music industry. While trying to achieve his dream, Llewyn's character gets fully revealed to the curious audience: depressive, driven by artistic melancholic, carelessness and irresponsibility, he is definitely not a totally likeable leading character. The outstanding indie-like performance of Oscar Isaac further strengthens the controversial personality of Llewyn. Speaking of actors performances, Justin Timberlake and Carey Mulligan as Jim and Jean Berkey as well as Garrett Hedlund (Johnny Five) provide supporting acting which adds up wonderfully to the artistic folk music atmosphere in the 1960s.

Aside from the perfect settings and excellent performances, Inside Llewyn Davis impresses with its cool-blooded depiction of Llewyn's drama, misery and unrealistic ambitions. The impersonal approach taken by the Coen Brothers is challenged by the Oscar Isaac's ability to develop affecton towards him (despite all the negative sides of his character). Add up the wonderful music score and mesmerizing music moments, mainly delivered by Timberlake & Mulligan, and you will end up with a strange, demanding, but totally rewarding movie.

Inside Llewyn Davis is not The Coen Brothers' greatest or most cult delivery, but it has a unique charm that would make remember it long after the final credits. Not a movie for the mainstream audiences, this is a must see for the lovers of The Brothers and indie-style pictures.