Review of Synecdoche, New York (2008) by Mike T — 18 Mar 2010
An extremely insightful experience. What starts off as a simple movie about a man's life who is domestically down on his luck slowly morphs into a tale of death and regret. Similiarly, as the plot spirals to its end, the line between reality and play start to blur, as the use of a "play within a play" motif starts to fuse with the actual play.
I found this movie a masterpiece because its the kind of movie where a first time viewing might not yield the true experience. The title uses the uncommon term synecdoche, which is indeed a term, wherein a part of something is able to stand in for the whole.
The movie is based around this dimension, and littered throughout the movie are motifs that lie beneath the carefully shot scenes. From the burning house, the use of clocks, delusional images, and a healthy dose of Jungian psychology, great attention is given to the life of Caden.
Speaking of illusions, did you realize that his last name was Cotard? Go look up what that is. Ultimately, what I see here is a movie that will soar over the heads of some, frustrate others, and mesmorize few.
I have been mesmorized.
This review of Synecdoche, New York (2008) was written by Mike T on 18 Mar 2010.
Synecdoche, New York has generally received positive reviews.
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