Review of This Must Be the Place (2011) by Fernán O — 05 Sep 2012

Sean Penn gives us another impeccable performance as Cheyenne, an aged goth pop star who has reached a point in his life where he cannot distinguish whether he is depressed or simply bored. Upon hearing of his father's death he returns to America where he is asked to finish his father's life long search for his Nazi tormentor.

This is absolutely an odd film, but its so beautiful. Penn is phenomenal as a rock star frozen in time. With central storyline playing out he also expresses deep anguish and guilt at past tragedies and these revelations really ground the story.

His appearance is obviously modelled on Robert Smith and there are moments where the likeness is uncanny. Frances MacDormand is so lovely as his devoted wife and she exposes the innocence of this sad and lost man.

The film's music is all written by David Byrne and he even features in a brilliant performance sequence, doing his usual offbeat thing. I can't think of a more suited artist to provide the film with it's music, adding a quirky and unusual aesthetic.

The film is wonderful and I am thinking it's my favourite film of the year... yes. One scene featuring a lonely fat boy singing the title song "This Must Be The Place" with Penn is heartbreakingly beautiful.

Those willing to open their minds will get a lot out of this. Perfect.