Review of Inside Llewyn Davis (2013) by Brontë Y — 01 Mar 2014

Inside Llewyn Davis is by far the most different film from any other that the Coen brothers have made thus far. While it is filled with the classic Coen brothers trademarks: sharp and witty dialogue, an unconventional ending, and of course, John Goodman, the tone and atmosphere of Inside Llewyn Davis is unlike anything that the Coens have tackled before. It's not a straightforward comedy like The Big Lebowski or Raising Arizona, but it's also not a dark and violent drama like No Country for Old Men or True Grit. It strikes the perfect balance in between those two extremes.

The character of Llewyn Davis (played brilliantly by Oscar Isaac) is a rather unlikable human being, who doesn't have the slightest bit of consideration for anyone around him and is generally rude to everyone he comes across. But once he starts playing his music, all preconceived notions that you had about Llewyn completely disappear and you begin to see this man for what he truly is. He is a passionate, soulful musician trying to make his way in the world, but life just keeps putting him down to the point where his music is all he has; and Oscar Isaac's beautiful musical performances give Llewyn a much-needed heart and soul which makes him more sympathetic.

Of course, you can't talk about this film without mentioning how great the soundtrack is. Each track gives off a mellow, calm, and relaxing vibe that make them wonderful to listen to; but aside from just sounding great, many of the tracks, such as "The Death of Queen Jane", "Hang Me, Oh Hang Me" and "Please Mr. Kennedy" beautifully illustrate a story that represents the era and provides these songs with deeper layers of emotion and passion, not just from Llewyn, but the other performers in the film as well. It's one of the best film soundtracks I've ever heard.

Inside Llewyn Davis is the most emotionally introspective and deep film that the Coen brothers have put out thus far. It takes them out of their usual comfort zone and with it they deliver an emotional punch to the gut from the harshness of reality.