Review of The Saddest Music in the World (2003) by Matthieu B — 18 Oct 2007

This was my first encounter with guy maddin's work, after hearing him lauded by myriad film critics. he's nothing if not fiercely original -- his use of "antique" film conventions, his play of black/white and color, his wild (though subtle) sense of humor, and so many other things.

despite the dense layering of technique and allusion, the film feels quite light, deceptively so, for the themes it explores (nationalism, capitalism, filial relationships, among others) are quite heady.

for a film with grief so firmly in its center, though, I couldn't find the emotional resonance/depth I expected. perhaps i'll find it on a second viewing (which this film clearly merits)...