Review of Somewhere (2010) by Adler N — 11 Aug 2011

Look, this film is meant to represent its title as simple as it really is: Somewhere.

So, what is Somewhere all about? Is it about a celebrity realizing that his life is in shambles? Or is it about a bonding father-daughter relationship? Sofia Coppola, with her usual elegant, simplistic style of film-making, brings us something which cannot really be judged based on mere merits. Is this film terrific? Maybe. Is it disappointing? Hmm, yeah, maybe. But certainly, it's up to our own interpretation, without lacking direction, of course.

Coppola projects the pace of the film to be more of an indie-like feeling, often focusing on the characters expressions. It's almost as if the film's trying to say, "Read my face, and know my character." So, is that a good thing? Again, we only guess that Somewhere is one of those films which cannot be judged solely on how 'good' or 'bad' it is. We want to feel like the film is trying to reach some sort of ground, whereby we can at least know where we're heading or what we're supposed to achieve or understand in every scene. Alas, it's not that easy. And in a way, that's really smart yet unentertaining, Coppola.

The characters are utilized really well, all time acknowledging what kind of scene they want to show. It's pretty amazing when you come to think of it thereafter, but not realizing there and then. Like, if there is a seductive scene or an emotional scene, there is clear direction from Stephen Dorff and Elle Fanning. In a way, this can be a wee bit confusing; the characters want to show the viewers what they're supposed to feel, but strangely enough, the audience just can't seem to be able to build any sort of momentum or connection.

Maybe, that's the thing with Somewhere. It tries and tries to display itself as many things, and it does come off as great at times. Unfortunately, it just fails to show us why we're watching it too. Are we supposed to sympathize with how celebrities live? Sure, why not? But the thing is, we're still doubtful: Really? Sympathize? Bah. Meh.

It's safe to say, this film is never direct. Even those relish rubbishing off movies have to admit, there's really not much to flaw. "Somewhere" speaks for itself. Simple, yet lying somewhere, up for interpretation.

Personally*... Living like a celebrity doesn't seem so glamorous anymore.