TIFF 2009

Three Short Reviews, by Astrid.

Life During Wartime - 7/10

The most recent film by Todd Solondz, was less an original piece but rather a continuation of his 1998 critically acclaimed Happiness. The story follows the same characters Joy, Trish and Helen (although played by different actresses) in their life many years later. It follows Solondz's dark, questionable humour as Trish's husband is released from jail, Joy spirals into mental insanity, and Helen (a much smaller role than in Happiness) distances herself completely from her family in hopes of holding onto her current success. It carries much of Solondz's very abrupt and uncomfortable charm, constantly rebirthing the theme "forgiving & forgetting" or moreso "forgiving vs forgetting". Carefully planned shots are intertwined with great acting - definitely a suggestion to anyone partially amused by Solondz's work.

*sidenote = great track written by Todd Solondz and performed by Devendra Banhart and Beck during ending credits

The Invention of Lying - 7.5/10

The Invention of Lying is an adorable film about a dreadful world full of truth, corrupted by one existing human that discovers the ability to lie. I find it really funny to come out of films at TIFF because everyone is so argumentative as to what is wrong with the movie, that they tend to ignore the fact that the theatre was roaring with laughter through the entire screening. I thought the movie was very sweet, funny and delicately sad. The cliche roles of Rob Lowe (asshole egotistical "talent", as my friend Jen referred to as the same character he played in Wayne's World), and Louis C.K. (typical best friend) are overshadowed by cameos and obvious thematic ties to Christianity/Catholicism. I found it refreshing to poke fun at the relation between "lying" and the creation of the bible. Without saying too much further, I also thought it was a great way to also refer to the harshness of superficiality. Overall I really enjoyed it, came in not expecting too much and came out very satisfied.

Up In The Air - 7.5/10

Jason Reitman's newest film about a downsizing expert at risk of losing his job was a depressing hit in my opinion. In this film, Clooney never fails to have great chemistry with all on screen. This film delves into the not so pleasant view of corporate downsizing, the harsh affects it has on those who lose their jobs. It deals a lot with coming to terms with your own wants and needs in life, and how it becomes a talent to help someone make the most out of a terrible situation. There is also a bitter debate between marriage and single life, which reinforces the idea that marriage/relationships are more fulfilling but being single gives you the freedom will to pick up and go as you please, no "baggage" attached. I found the movie to be more personal than I expected, funny and bits of sadness in between. In relation to his other movies, I would say that Up In The Air is so far my favourite of his works.