Review of Palindromes (2005) by Casey B — 06 Jun 2005

4 stars out of 4.

Director: Todd Solondz.

Starring: Sharon Wilkins, Rachel Corr, Hannah Freiman, Valerie Shusterov,.

Emani Sledge, Will Denton, Shayna Levine, Jennifer Jason Leigh.

Note: I usually only list enough actors to fill up one line, but as so many actors played the same character in this film, I felt it necessary to break my rule and list them all. So there they are. All eight of them. Damn, Todd Solondz, you are amazing.

I am speechless. These kind of movies are truly rare. When they [i]do[/i] eventually come around, I am reminded of exactly why I love art and film in the first place.

Solondz is known for his disturbing work. I argue that he is not really disturbing at all; rather, people simply cannot stomach watching material that is so close to home, and therefore, are disturbed. Solondz' films are anything but escapism. Although he may find extremely creative ways of presenting his material, the substance is unadultered reality. [i]Palindromes[/i] is a work of genious. Its subtext is a real treat for intellectuals, while its style is more than sufficient for film buffs. He mixes reality with fiction beautifully, and never produces a dull moment.

However, I do not want to say much more, as I fear that my rant will unintentionally expose the film's bold statements, and potentially prohibit others from experiencing them first-hand. There is nothing to be said that wont be completely evident upon viewing. PLEASE SEE THIS FILM! EVERONE! It is [i]very [/i]much worth it.