Review of Magnolia (1999) by Matt D — 19 Dec 2013
On first glance this is my least favorite film from P.T. Anderson but my gut tells me that subsequent viewings might make it rise in my estimation.
The things that are currently holding me back include an exhaustive running time with seemingly a lot of fat to trim (even though it moves along at a brisk pace) and an overabundance musical montages that somewhat make you think that the film is reaching a climax of sorts nearly a dozen times throughout. The frog rain certainly leaves no question as to where the final ending is, but I was definitely curious if we were ever going to get there.
Quips aside, like all Anderson films it is gorgeous to look at and impeccably made on all levels. And it is only surpassed on this technical level by the outstanding acting delivered from everyone on the stunning cast. Truly excellent work from everyone involved.
And even though I may not be in love with it yet, the potential is there if I choose to dive in again.
This review of Magnolia (1999) was written by Matt D on 19 Dec 2013.
Magnolia has generally received positive reviews.
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