Review of Match Point (2005) by Bryan B — 20 Jul 2010

Match Point is the second Woody Allen film I've seen (the second one being Anything Else). Match Point is a complete contrast to Anything Else. Match Point is about a retired tennis pro (Jonathon Rhys-Meyers, who is torn between two women, one that he truly loves and one that will raise his social status and his well being considerably.

Here are things that were good about Match Point.

1) Performances: Woody Allen brought in some amazing talent in Jonathon Rhys-Meyers (The Tudors, From Paris With Love), Scarlett Johanasson (Iron Man 2, Vicki Cristina Barcelona), Brian Cox (X-Men 2:X-Men United, Troy), Mathew Goode (Watchmen, Leap Year), Emily Mortimer (Howl's Moving Castle, Paris, je ta'ime) and Penelope Wilton (Shaun of the Dead, Doctor Who). They all do fantastic performances. however, it is Jonathon Rhys Meyers and Scarlett Johanasson who steal the show.

2) Chemistry: The romantic chemistry between Chris (Jonathon Rhys-Meyers) and Nola (Scarlett Johanasson), is amazing. How they flirt and tease one another before their first romantic encounter is just absolutely breathtaking.

3)Little to no background music: Woody Allen uses very little background music for the film. This allows for the dialog between the characters to be heard as clearly as possible. and when music is heard, it is opera music.

4) Has something for everyone: Match Point is one of the few films out there that will have something for everyone. It has romance, comedy, drama, suspense, murder and tragedy.

5) slow paced, slowly burning story: This isn't a film for those who enjoy a faster paced film. the story is told over the events of a year. the events of the film keep piling up and up until it all comes down in a quick climax.

Overall, the film is just brilliant. great story, great acting and great directing make for a truly amazing movie that i'll recommend everyone to go and see.