Films/DVD Asylum

Posted by jackrandom (A) on March 21, 2007 at 05:10:03

Here may be small spoilers of some plot elements
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Saw an interesting movie last night -- Heaven, with Cate Blanchett and Giovanni Ribisi. Directed by Tom Tykwer, but written by Krzysztof Kieslowski (yes of Three colors and Decalogue fame)

About a schoolteacher woman (Blanchett) who tries to murder a man who has been responsible for the drug problems and drug related deaths in this Italian community. But it's really about the rookie police officer (Ribisi) who falls for her and wants to help her.

Pacing was slow, but worth it, as the camera lingers on faces to watch changes in expressions. Acting was understated and very good by both Blanchett and Ribisi. Ribisi surprised me with his somber police officer. He has every reason to be a happy person (new job, good father, family, etc) yet he is not. Why? The movie hints at a few reasons. Anyway, for the actor who played Phoebe's ditsy brother on Friends, he was understated and subtle in this role. A nice job by him.

Blanchett is her usual great actor -- showing wide emotions in her facial features and an understated beauty even in the face of the problems she is facing.

Some interesting symbolism in the similarities of their names, appearances, and outlooks.

All in all I thought it was 90 minutes very well spent. Interesting that it was about a bomb plot, subsequent interrogation, and attempted escape, yet there were no explosions, car chases, gun fights, screaming, over-wrought emotions, etc, yet packed so much more visceral "punch." Notice how, even in the scenes where the police descend on them and the bomb scene in the beginning, the sound is muted down, so you see what's happening but don't hear it.

The scenary was nicely filmed, and the music (by Arvo Part) was beautiful.

And finally....I think Cate Blanchett is my new favorite actor. Between this and Little Fish I am just impressed with everything I've seen of her.

Recommended. I'd be interested in others' opinions.