Boyhood has garnered so much PR, it's almost gotten impossible to expect the film to live up to expectations. That said, I shocked by just how NOT into it I was. A bad film? No. Does it deserve a "Best Picture" honor, no matter the award? HECK, no. The film's hype comes from being shot over a 12-year period, so you get to see the young actors in the cast grow up before your eyes ... but the fact remains, for 2 hours and 45 minutes nothing happens in this film. There are no real conflicts - just scenes of potential drama (young Mason tries drugs for the first time, or is given a rifle by his grand-dad for his 15th birthday, or one scene of him being taunted by bullies) - NONE of which are ever followed up on. I spent almost three hours waiting for something to happen, when in the end it just felt like watching Mason's family's home movies. Again, not a bad film ... but if this wins a Best Picture Oscar over its more creative and structurally engaging competitors, I may never watch the Oscars again. (rated R) C
BOYHOOD trailer
I read the synopsis and knew it wasn't for me: it sounds one of those clever, arty films made to impress a certain type of viewer - or critic. And why on earth does it have to be so long?! Not at all the sort of film I want to see, no matter how lauded it is, so thank you for spending nearly 3 hours of your life confirming that view! Great review
ReplyDeleteGood review! Happy to say this film is on my to see soon watch list! Thanks for the cool review! Kevano
ReplyDeleteSounds stupid! I'm with you on this one, Donald!
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