Review of Southland Tales (2007) by Rob M — 21 Feb 2010

An entirely unique cinematic experience...to say the least. That, combined with solid performances - some of them surprisingly strong from a cast that includes some that I wouldn't classify as heavyweights - makes for a compelling film and film-making.

This film precariously walks a high-wire, many times teetering on the verge of flaying, falling and failing fatally because it's definitely working without a safety net. As the viewer, I felt as if I were half a step behind this film on the high-wire, doing my damnedest to keep from falling myself.

By the time the screen fades to black and the closing credits roll, I feel a sense of relief that we both made it.

This movie is going to require a second viewing (and likely more) because, while I enjoyed the ride, there's just so much happening between waiting for the film to fall and catching myself from falling that I know I missed much. Four stars for now - subject to revision after subsequent viewing(s).