Review of The Florida Project (2017) by Spencer S — 30 Dec 2017

Saw all the movies that will probably be nominated, my pick is #thefloridaproject.

Had a tough time comparing this to other movies, and I'll explain. Think Little Miss Sunshine meets a modern day Grapes of Wrath. When trying to find a classic movie depicting poverty my first thought was slum dog millionaire. The problem with that is the financial twist or fate at the end when everything falls into place and he gets the girl. The Grapes or Wrath on the other hand is poor through and through. There were a lot of themes in the Florida Project they were close to home; among others, running away as a kid, hustling money out of thin air with no income, getting into trouble in abandoned houses and living in Florida.

The movie was filled with lots of bright colors, ironic given the struggle and shots of different exuberant commercial tourist traps that personally look absurd.

#BriaVinatie crushes it, I would of called her a strong female protagonist but Variety's Oscar predictions had her slotted as a possible candidate for actress in a supporting role. She depicts modern struggles for single mothers in a modern economy.

Her unique look has an underlying confidence as she expresses herself with dyed hair, tattoos & foul language. Definitely not that Lauren Bacall or Sophia Loren clean cut debutante stuff which is becoming more and more outdated.

#WilliamDafoe was excellent, showing his range and ability as an actor. Comparing him to other roles he has done like the lead in #theHunter (2011) or he investigator in #AmericanPsycho (2000) I see how he fits this role well, as the cold lone wolf & law abiding good guy.

Enjoyed the music, great score!