Review of Toni Erdmann (2016) by Tvjerry — 20 Jan 2022
A German music teacher (Peter Simonischek) has a strained relationship with his adult daughter (Sandra Hüller), so he decides to surprise her at work in Bucharest. Unfortunately, his appearance interferes with her all-consuming job.
After being rejected, he creates an alter ego and insinuates himself into her career. His slightly absurd presence seems implausible and her reaction is surprisingly muted, however it's pretty obvious where this is headed.
Simonischek's performance is eccentric, while Hüller eventually lets us see the cracks in her resolve. Even though the premise could be considered amusing, the execution was more European in its subdued approach.
The historical literary definition of a comedy is a story that ends happily, but the modern audience likes to laugh. I didn't find one funny moment in the whole film and 2:45 is a long time to keep hoping for fun.
This review of Toni Erdmann (2016) was written by Tvjerry on 20 Jan 2022.
Toni Erdmann has generally received very positive reviews.
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