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Maps to the Stars.
Maps to the Stars is a 2014 black comedy film by David Cronenberg and stars Julianne Moore, John Cusack, Mia Wasikowska, Robert Pattinson, Olivia Williams and newcomer Evan Bird.
I bill the film as a comedy, however viewers should be warned that there are moments that invoke queasiness and psychological horror. That being said, Maps to the Stars is an accessible and tense film that exemplifies everything that makes Cronenberg such a fascinating director.
The film covers many topics, including the nature of the projected image (on film, off film, characters playing characters on screen and behind the scenes, ghosts, memories, etc.), disillusionment, secrets, madness, love, obsession, despair and suicide.
The story is a mosaic following damaged and revolting characters as they live in, around and with Hollywood. Despite the narrative complexity, the story runs like a Swiss pocket watch and never loses focus. Everyone on screen is terrific, with particular mention to Evan Bird as a child star and Julianne Moore as a frighteningly nasty has-been.
The film is terrific but certainly not for everyone. A love of dark satire and an interest in the mythology surrounding Hollywood will greatly enhance the viewer's experience.
Maps to the Stars is a 2014 black comedy film by David Cronenberg and stars Julianne Moore, John Cusack, Mia Wasikowska, Robert Pattinson, Olivia Williams and newcomer Evan Bird.
I bill the film as a comedy, however viewers should be warned that there are moments that invoke queasiness and psychological horror. That being said, Maps to the Stars is an accessible and tense film that exemplifies everything that makes Cronenberg such a fascinating director.
The film covers many topics, including the nature of the projected image (on film, off film, characters playing characters on screen and behind the scenes, ghosts, memories, etc.), disillusionment, secrets, madness, love, obsession, despair and suicide.
The story is a mosaic following damaged and revolting characters as they live in, around and with Hollywood. Despite the narrative complexity, the story runs like a Swiss pocket watch and never loses focus. Everyone on screen is terrific, with particular mention to Evan Bird as a child star and Julianne Moore as a frighteningly nasty has-been.
The film is terrific but certainly not for everyone. A love of dark satire and an interest in the mythology surrounding Hollywood will greatly enhance the viewer's experience.