"Chewing the Scenery" is a term for melodramatic over acting, and it also happens to be the exact phrase my dad used to describe Keira Knightley's performance in A Dangerous Method. His argument is that it is easier to overact and it isn't always right to do so. I'd argue that Knightley does exactly what is asked of her, and does it well and in a way that adds to the story, rather than as a way to draw attention to herself at the expense of the other characters.
The film, directed by David Cronenberg, tells the story of Carl Jung as he tests out the new psychology method of talking to a patient in order to cure them (revolutionary idea!). Also featuring into the story is Sigmund Freud, played by Cronenberg regular Viggo Mortensen (Eastern Promises), though his role is more a secondary instigator.
The primary drama of the period piece is the relationship between Carol Jung, played by Michael Fassbender (Shame), and Keira Knightley (Love Actually) as his Russian patient. We are introduced to the psychotic Keira quickly, kicking and screaming her way into Jung's world. Where Keira is loud and physical in her performance, Fassbender is deafeningly reserved and the two performances play well off each other as a result of their polarity. The two strike up an odd rapport that turns sexual as he discovers more about her from his position of power as her therapist. As his mistress she affects his social life as well as his business, causing strife between him and his wife (obviously), and lowering the respect of his mentor Freud for him.
The film is beautifully shot, the costumes wonderful, and the score may have been one of my favorite aspects of it; it is intense and jarring and suited perfectly for the movie. I'd also say that this was Fassbender's best performance of his four this year, though he likely will get more credit for Shame. I recommend this film to everyone, but be aware that there is some nudity and psychotic screaming, things that may not interest everyone.
Matt Brickell is a senior writer and is self diagnosed as being completely sane.
No comments:
Post a Comment