Review of Manderlay (2005) by Amy P — 04 Jul 2008
Inevitable comparison with the unsettling and compelling 'Dogville' probably does 'Manderlay' a disservice: it has plenty to offer on its own merits, but they can be hard to see when it's so overshadowed by its remarkable predecessor.
This is particularly true for poor Bryce Dallas Howard, whose Grace is perhaps too wholesome and egalitarian after Kidman's bruised and desperate hauteur. This film's Grace seems less driven than Dogville's, and more just prone to childishly meddlesome whims.
.. and as it's Grace who precipitates and structures the narrative, everything feels a little 2-dimensional as a consequence.
This review of Manderlay (2005) was written by Amy P on 04 Jul 2008.
Manderlay has generally received positive reviews.
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