Anna Karenina

When I walked into Anna Kerenina, I was expecting something between Pride and Prejudice, and The Duchess. The trailers made this film look great. Unfortunately, what I saw was a disjointed film, that was shot like a play.

The cinematography was great. The costumes were beautiful, but unfortunately, that was the best part of this film. From what I gathered, Anna Kerenina tells the story of Anna, a wealthy woman who begins an affair with a handsome young officer. Anna’s story is intertwined with several others, to portray Russian aristocracy in the 1800’s.

I did not like the way in which Anna Kerenina was filmed like a play. It went against everything I know about film. There was literally a set on stage which was changed like a play. I found this obscure, and it made it hard for me to follow the plot. It also felt like the film was being ‘acted’, rather than portrayed as real life events like most films.

Anna Kerenina also played with the rules of filming, and there were several shots that I did not like. I especially found it strange when objects obscured characters

All in all, I was disappointed with Anna Kerenina. If you like art films, I’m sure you will enjoy it. If you’re like me however, and like traditional filming, then stay well clear. For the costuming and cinematography alone, I give it 6/10.

Silver Linings Playbook

Silver Linings Playbook, is a quirky, offbeat film, that deals with mental illnesses. Now don’t go thinking that it is a depressing film. Sure, there are some sad moments, but the overall feel of the film is far from that, in fact, there is a subtle humourous side to this brilliant film that makes it a joy to watch.

Silver Linings Playbook, tells the story of Patrick or Pat, a recently divorced man who suffers from bipolar disorder. Pat comes to live with his doting mum (Jackie Weaver) and OCD dad (Robert De Niro). Pat tries desperately to win back his wife with the help of Tiffany, a young woman who has dealt with depression after the death of her husband.

Tiffany agrees to help Pat on the condition that he perform a dance number with her, (something she has always dreamed of). At first, Pat laughs at the idea, but eventually agrees to help Tiffany. The two develop a friendship from their own pain.

One thing that must be applauded in this film, is the brilliant acting. Bradley Cooper plays his character well, and switches between his two personalities effortlessly. Robert De Niro, also nails his character.But perhaps the most surprising acting comes from the beautiful Miss Jennifer Lawrence. Lawrence has shed her image as Katniss Everdeen, and taken on the challenge of playing a young, depressed woman, very well. She is brilliant, and in my opinion I see her as Tiffany, not as Jennifer, something which she should be commended on. She is an acting chameleon, who do well in any role she chooses.

I thoroughly enjoyed this film. It deals with mental diseases in a very respectful, personal way, given that the director has based the film on personal events. A film that must be seen. You will laugh, you will cry, but most of all you will see mental illness in a different light. A very deserving 9/10.