Review of The Soloist (2009) by Susans. — 17 Jan 2010
This is one of the best films I saw in 2009. I'm sorry it got so little reception and that most of the critics did not seem to know how to handle it. Anyone who has worked, lived with or been close to someone with schizophrenia will probably be deeply moved by this movie.
This is not a film of easy answers. But it's subject matter is not easy. It's not A Beautiful Mind or Shine, where the characters are suddenly transformed by the power of music or math or whatever.
It deals with the reality of schizophrenia and homelessness, which are both terrifying, dizzying, and messy issues that cannot be solved with one helping hand and musical instrument. The acting, writing, and directing are amazing, as is the cinematography (the first sequence on skid row and an "internal" light show are particularly notable).
I went into this film unsure about it, as the previews depicted it as one of those feel good inspirational stories, but was totally blown away. To think that films like Up in the Air and Avatar are stealing all the acclaim for 2009 and this film is getting left in the dust is heartbreaking.
It's truly a masterpiece.
This review of The Soloist (2009) was written by Susans. on 17 Jan 2010.
The Soloist has generally received positive reviews.
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