Review of The Lobster (2015) by Andrea M — 10 Sep 2016

I rented this knowing just the very basic premise, and that it was interesting, idiosyncratic, and not for everyone. And it's all that.

The premise as presented is that Colin Farrell is in a world where he has 45 days to find a mate or else be turned into a lobster. Seriously. Now it is really the world in which this premise takes place that's the weird part. It is a strange dystopia where people are compelled to be in relationships. Farrell's character "David" (the only one in the entire movie with a name) has broken up with his wife, and so he is required to check into a hotel with other solo people with the requirement to find someone he is compatible with. Compatible here means sharing SOMETHING in common - and everyone we see is defined by their trait. John C. Reilly plays the "man with a lisp", there is a "man with a limp" a "woman who has periodic nosebleeds", a "heartless woman" and a woman who "loves butter biscuits.".

The entire thing is performed drained of emotions. I've seen it billed as a comedy, but it is very droll and subdued, and you'll see the comic sensibilities in it, but don't expect to laugh.

Half the story takes place in this pathetic hotel, and then it goes into other directions - the creators have built up a bizarre but internally consistent world, and they do more with it than just let it play out - which is good because about halfway through you really do need some fresh air.

You remember that expression "date movie?" Well, this is so personal, so awkward, so weird, and so cynical toward relationships (although a love story of sorts does emerge) that it may be the worst date movie since Travis Bickle asked Betsy out. There is no way of saying whether you'd like this, but it will definitely get under your skin. If you're feeling adventurous, want something REALLY DIFFERENT, and won't get upset if you see a movie that you just might scream at - take a chance on this.