Review of Short Cuts (1993) by Kristina K — 06 Apr 2012

I have never come across a film that lends itself so perfectly to two separate artists and mediums. "Short Cuts" is as much a Robert Altman film as it is a Raymond Carver story. "Short Cuts" is Altman's adaptation of Carver's short stories and poems and it comes to thrilling life.

Some have criticized the film for a seeming lack of character development but I don't think it's that simple. It's epic length (the picture runs over 3 hours) can give the impression of aimlessness (but is it really 'aimless' when that's an intention?).

"Short Cuts," like "Nashville," is a film about people living in a specific time and place. Where "Nashville" was about the political climate and music industry colliding in the 70s, "Short Cuts" is about the moral climate of 90s Los Angeles.

Altman is asking the questions: "What is right?" "What is wrong?" "What is the proper way to conduct yourself?" "How are you supposed to go about making decisions?" "Do you ever really know someone?" "Who are the people that can impact your life?" and these are large questions to be asking.

Altman uses his ensemble format to great affect here. The characters are acting out these scenarios for us to use as a mirror to our own lives. If you observe their actions you will see their character.

"Short Cuts" is a modern morality tale. It's an important film in Robert Altman's career, a love letter to Raymond Carver's legacy and a kaleidoscopic ode to the city of Los Angeles.

One of my all time favorite films that's deeply rewarding each time I see it. "Short Cuts" is a masterpiece.