Key Takeaways
- The trailer for Antoine Fuqua's Michael Jackson biopic 'Michael' received a flat reception and raised production concerns.
- Guillermo del Toro's 'Frankenstein' garnered a divisive reception, with its second half generally seen as stronger.
- Critics noted 'Frankenstein's visual flatness and literal dialogue, comparing it unfavorably to del Toro's earlier works.
- Jacob Elordi's performance as the creature in 'Frankenstein' was a notable highlight.
- Lynne Ramsay's 'Die My Love' was highly praised for its psychological depth and accurate portrayal of postpartum depression.
- Jennifer Lawrence's role in 'Die My Love' is considered a career-best, showcasing fearless acting choices.
- A 'Miss Piggy' movie is reportedly in development, with Jennifer Lawrence and Emma Stone attached as producers.
Deep Dive
- Antoine Fuqua's 'Michael' trailer received a flat reception and sparked questions regarding potential production issues.
- The film's production has been protracted, reportedly facing legal troubles that necessitated a script overhaul and release date push.
- Hosts suggested that the delay of 'Michael,' alongside 'Immortal Kombat 2,' may have contributed to a poor October box office.
- The trailer was described as mediocre and repetitive, prompting queries about the financial motivations behind its production despite known legal issues.
- Guillermo del Toro's 'Frankenstein,' starring Oscar Isaac and Jacob Elordi, received mixed reactions after initial festival screenings.
- Hosts critiqued the film's visual style and interpretation, labeling its literal dialogue as 'facile' and comparing it unfavorably to del Toro's animated 'Pinocchio.'
- The guest appreciated del Toro's attempt to introduce new story elements but stated he did not 'love' the film.
- Despite divided critical opinions, one host observed a lively audience experience in a three-quarters full Los Angeles IMAX theater.
- The film is structured into two unequal parts—the creator's tale and the creature's tale—with the latter, driven by Jacob Elordi's performance, considered more engaging.
- The first half of 'Frankenstein' was perceived as weaker, drawing criticism for segments of CGI and set design that appeared artificial and flat.
- Cinematography also garnered comments for a perceived flatness, potentially due to digital production or a deliberate choice for Netflix.
- Despite CGI criticisms, Elizabeth's red motif costuming was highlighted as a strong visual element.
- The creature's design in Guillermo del Toro's 'Frankenstein' is distinct from previous iterations, utilizing praised practical effects.
- Its visual design has been compared to Dr. Manhattan from 'Watchmen,' with its creator, Michael, noted for work on other del Toro films.
- Jacob Elordi's performance as the creature was lauded for its expressive nature despite limited dialogue and commanding physical presence.
- The narrative explores the creature's learning process, its connection to 'Paradise Lost,' and its evolution into a revenge drama in the second half.
- The film depicts reanimation through electricity harnessed from lightning, applied via the lymphatic system and spine; a scientific explanation hosts briefly questioned for practicality.
- The plot includes a bent tool granting the monster immortality, further fueling discussions about the plausibility of the scientific premise.
- The ending, featuring the monster's final moments in sunlight, was interpreted as a symbol of forgiveness and eternal life, though some labeled it a 'hallmark' conclusion.
- Despite scientific debates, the film demonstrated popularity, playing to a three-quarters full IMAX theater on a Wednesday afternoon in Los Angeles.
- The film's awards potential is under discussion, with surprise expressed over its inclusion in some Best Picture rankings given its divisive reception.
- Jacob Elordi's performance is seen as a potential factor for nominations, particularly in supporting actor categories.
- Guillermo del Toro's audience affection and the film's production design are considered strengths for below-the-line and festival audience awards.
- Oscar Isaac's potential Best Actor nomination for 'Frankenstein' was debated, alongside technical category chances like costume design and makeup.
- Lynne Ramsay's new psychological thriller, 'Die My Love,' stars Jennifer Lawrence and Robert Pattinson as a couple moving to Montana to seek a quieter life and become parents.
- The film features an experiential and less literal narrative style, praised for its visceral portrayal of primal emotions and the dissociative feelings of new motherhood.
- One host called it a 'favorite movie of the year,' noting its accurate depiction of postpartum depression.
- The film deviates from typical portrayals of motherhood, offering a raw and effective psychological examination of its challenges.
- Jennifer Lawrence's performance in 'Die My Love' is characterized as raw and animalistic, effectively portraying postpartum depression.
- Her acting choices were praised as 'fearless,' with one host admitting past criticism but acknowledging her career evolution.
- The film's experiential and surrealist style was compared to 'The Yellow Wallpaper,' though its later literalization sparked debate.
- Lawrence's physical performance, including a breastfeeding scene, was noted for portraying bodily functions without sexualization.
- Mubi acquired 'Die My Love' for a wide release in approximately 2,800 theaters, a notable distribution for an experimental film starring major actors.
- Jennifer Lawrence's performance is reiterated as a career highlight, described as commanding and immersive despite the film's 'one note' of chaos.
- The discussion touched on broader themes of generational influence and legacy, drawing metaphorical comparisons to 'Frankenstein.'
- Potential Oscar nominations for Best Actress are being considered for Lawrence, placing her alongside contenders like Jesse Buckley and Emma Stone.