Movie Review: Frances Ha (2013)
Written by Anthony Sargon
If you’re in the mood for a quirky, feel-good movie with likable characters and snappy dialogue, then “Frances Ha” is the movie you’ve been waiting for. Director Noah Baumbach and star Greta Gerwig also co-wrote the script, which is heavily influenced by Woody Allen’s previous work, and that’s in no way a bad thing.
Frances Halladay (Greta Gerwig) is a 27-year-old dancer living in Brooklyn with her best friend Sophie (Mickey Sumner). When Sophie decides to move in with someone else, Frances suddenly finds herself without any concrete living arrangements. She’s then forced to stay with friends, family, and even gets a summer job at her old college for some extra cash. All the while, Frances is trying to figure out where she fits in the dance world, and if she can salvage her and Sophie’s friendship.
The writing in this film is great, and in that sense is very similar to something you’d see in a Woody Allen film. Characters are smart and cultured; their conversations snappy and witty. It all feels very New York, and the decision to shoot the film in black and white is another nod to Allen’s 1979 “Manhattan.” It’s clear that Baumbach and Gerwig really “get” New York, and their passion for the city seeps through every frame.
Greta Gerwig is extremely likable as Frances, and I was immediately able to root for her. She’s broke, unsure about what she’s going to do with her life, but is always optimistic and positive. Mickey Sumner is great as Sophie, although her character isn’t nearly as likable as Frances. I actually had a hard time buying how someone like Frances could even have a friend like Sophie. The rest of the cast is great too, including Adam Driver and Michael Zegen.
The Verdict:
“Frances Ha” has charm and wit to spare. If you have a functioning heart, you’ll enjoy it.
Numerical Score: 8.5
Read the Original post on A Geek's Blog
| Copyright © 2012 Naharnet.com. All Rights Reserved. | https://naharnet.com/stories/en/118324 |