Review of The Man Who Wasn't There (2001) by Stuart K — 25 Nov 2008
The Coen Brothers created an authentic modern day film-noir with this dark thriller, but look closer, it's a sci-fi film in disguise. ;) Shot in a brilliantly sharp black and white and set in small town California in 1949, it tells the story of chain smoking barber Ed Crane (Billy Bob Thornton), who discovers his wife Doris (Frances McDormand) is having an affair with her boss, Big Dave Brewster (James Gandolfini), who runs local store Nirdlingers.
Ed wants to bankroll a career in dry-cleaning, and decides to blackmail Big Dave to the tune of $10,000. But, nothing goes to plan, and it ends up hurting those closest to him. The Coen's created a love letter to the dark, noirish thrillers of James M.
Cain. It is a bleak yet visually poetic piece, not for everyone, but it is well worth seeing it for the cast, which also includes Jon Polito, Tony Shaloub and a young Scarlett Johansson. :).
This review of The Man Who Wasn't There (2001) was written by Stuart K on 25 Nov 2008.
The Man Who Wasn't There has generally received very positive reviews.
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