Review of Mistress America (2015) by Sanserif — 22 Aug 2015

I don't normally give 10/10 but, I can't deny that this was probably the most fun I had in the theater all year. I laughed out loud. It's a very fun, heartfelt and smart movie.

I really enjoyed watching 'Frances Ha' a couple years back, and that attracted me to this film. Noah Baumbach and Greta Gerwig really take it to a whole new level. The writing is so funny and sharp and interesting. It is sort of a 'teen' coming-of-age film, and I feel like it has a lot of the wit of John Hughes' best films. So many interesting and creative ideas come through in the dialog and editing.

I love that a lot of the cliched scenes that we've come to expect are cut to a minimum in favor of unique, funnier scenes and ideas. It really helps the film feel fresh and unique and kept me really engaged.

There's a little bit of overlap with Wes Anderson's films (I know him and Noah Baumbach work together a lot) in terms of character and dialog, but I really love the natural performances that Mr. Baumbach brings out of the actors. The film is shot very simply and beautifully, it feels slightly European. It really lets the script and actors shine.

I see that not everyone enjoyed the film as much as I did... I can only speak for myself. I really loved it.