Review of The One (2001) by Filipeneto — 07 Jul 2018

In this film Robin Williams gave life to Sy, an employee of a big store that works in the department of revelation of photographs. He is an apparently competent and good worker at his job. But the truth is that he hides a manic fascination for a family he usually attend, the Yorkin's. But when he realizes that the unity and joy of that family is in danger of disappearing, he decides to act and protect the family.

The film is not easy to digest. To begin with, the rhythm of the movie is purposefully slow, in order to construct the characters and plot in a more appropriate and perceptible way. Then you have the problem of the main character being dysfunctional and hard to like. Initially he acts like a maniac, with an obsession with that family, to which he seems to wish to belong. We do not know if it is envy, if it is worship, if it is a mania. Even so, there is something rational about how he behaves, as we have seen in the explanations he gives to the police in the end. Another problem with this film, especially for the more commercial audience, is the intellectual touches the film takes on regularly, in monologues or in discreet detail that many people may find boring or expendable. I confess, I enjoyed feeling it.

Little can be said about Williams' performance. He is brilliant. I never thought to see this actor, so attached to comedy and humorous characters, to give life to a character so dense and complex, with touches of villain, stalker and avenger associated with the sweetness of a lonely, needy and unhappy man. The remaining cast was also fine, but does not stand out and leaves room for Williams to shine as he deserves.

Technically, this is a competent but discreet film. Good cinematography, good light and color, good camera angles, and a discreet yet capable soundtrack. I would highlight the monologues, where the film shows some art.