 | | | From left, Cate Blanchett, Director Woody Allen and Alec Baldwin.
Photo Jessica Miglio (c) 2013 Gravier Productions, courtesy Sony Pictures Classics
| | | | | | Woody Allen has had some huge hits and he had has some huge flops. When you hear that another Woody Allen movie is coming out, you may find yourself waiting to see what the reviews look like and hear the critics' and audiences' reactions before you decide if you want to go yourself. Well, wait no longer!
This Woody Allen film is a hit.
The scene stealer in this film is Cate Blanchett. She is the strongest reason to see the film. Her performance as Jasmine is nothing short of astounding.
When an actress plays a role of a woman teetering on the edge of insanity, any other actress could have "overdone" the performance in the style of Joan Crawford or Bette Davis, but Blanchett plays it full tilt and keeps the character of Jasmine as real and believable. This is likely a performance that will be getting many nominations for the Academy Award, Golden Globe, and more.
The actors making up the supporting cast are all perfect, too. Sally Hawkins as Jasmine's sister, Ginger, is "spot on" with her performance. The role called for a strong contrast to Blanchett's and Hawkins did a perfect job. She is venerable and naãve, very likeable and sympathetic.
Some have compared this film to Tennessee Williams' "A Streetcar Named Desire." Having seen both films, I could see how the overall theme and character situation was similar, but "Blue Jasmine" is not a remake or retelling at all. Enjoy the film for what it is. Knowledge of "A Streetcar Named Desire" is not necessary or even important for an enjoyable experience.
My only complaint about the film would be how its message is so blatant. "Blue Jasmine" presents many life lessons and themes to the audience. Some of them hit you over the head a bit too much, but that is the fault of the script not the actors.
Bobby Cannavale's character, Ginger's lover, named Chili, must say about 10 times in the film, "Look how your sister was never there for you! She was rich and never helped you when she could. Don't forget that!"
It was obvious in the film that Blanchett defined her relationship with her sister as only needing her when she was in trouble. Hearing the character Chili actually say that in the film multiple times was unnecessary and annoying.
"Blue Jasmine" is rated PG-13. This film is for adults due to an adult situation. There is nothing shocking or profane to shelter children from, but they would likely be bored and unable to connect with the story. The total running time is 1 hour and 38 minutes.
You can view the trailer at zemrak.com.
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Lamorinda Weekly, Moraga CA