Review of The Bling Ring (2013) by Paul J — 12 Feb 2014

Sofia Coppola continues her uncompromising streak with another understated masterpiece. The detached quality that she demonstrated in such a mature manner with Somewhere, is further illustrated with this bold little jewel.

It's like a modern re-telling of The King of Comedy. The youngsters in this film do not consider themselves criminals. Instead, they are just victims to a spoiled and celebrity obsessed society. Don't get me wrong, they do make some stupid choices, but from a certain point of view, I can't blame them.

In some respects, The Bling Ring is like The Wolf of Wall Street's little sister. They are both about the same thing. The desire to be part of the world of the rich and famous. It's even more insane when you realize that Coppola was actually able to film inside Paris Hilton's house.

Essentially, she's recreating true events in the same locations. Reminiscent of Kiarostami's Close-Up. Harmony Korine's masterful Spring Breakers was also a brilliant critique of a celebrity-obsessed world, but somehow Coppola's take on it is more restrained, mature and sophisticated.

Sofia's style reminds me at times of Kubrick's detached quality. She hasn't made a bad film yet and I love her determined and singular vision. She's one of the best young directors we have working today.