Review of The Saddest Music in the World (2003) by Eric R — 25 Jul 2011
Set in Winnipeg during the Great Depression, The Saddest Music in the World tells the story of a competition which is announced by a legless woman, Lady Port-Huntly, to find the Saddest Music in the world.
The reason behind the competition is to raise awareness of her companies beer and increase sales. Her old lover, Chester, an American producer shows up to win the competition. This is an highly inventive visual film by Guy Maddin which is shot in black and white circa the 1920-30s cinema.
Its witty and bizarre and features a lot of unique visual style but un-like some of his better films (Brand Upon The Brain, My Winnipeg) it not as strong in the visual storytelling department. Lots of strange characters and situations in this one from the American's father, who is somewhat responsible for Lady Port-Huntly's loss of legs, causing him to build her new glass legs filled with beer to his strange brother.
Definitely worth watching for its inventiveness and ingenuity but nothing spectacular.
This review of The Saddest Music in the World (2003) was written by Eric R on 25 Jul 2011.
The Saddest Music in the World has generally received positive reviews.
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