Review of Nebraska (2013) by Tim G — 09 Apr 2014

Nebraska wanted to make a statement with the lack of colour in its black and white filter. It felt like a statement against the current crop of beautifully coloured movies (partly emerging due to the ever-increasing entertainment screen quality) that lack character substantiation or coherent plots in favour of blow-your-mind visuals. Nebraska is a beautiful film, just perhaps not in the way that Gravity is seen as beautiful.

The plot follows a father and son's journey to collect his $1 million dollar winnings. What follows addresses ideas of the meaning of material wealth; the nature of friendship; the idea of family and especially the bond between a son and his father.

The acting is outstanding from beginning to end. The lead roles of the Grant family are well met by Will Forte as the son; Bruce Dern as the elderly father. June Squibb as the elderly mother is another beacon of light with her blunt discourse and enigmatic persona. Made-famous by his involvement in Breaking Bad, Bob Odenkirk carries another solid performance as the second son involved in the story.

I won't spoil the ending but the ending is not what matters at all. Enjoy director Alexander Payne's latest testament in his captivating filmography. You won't miss the colour.