Oct 2, 2012

Holy Motors [2012]


I've been struggling with this review for over a month, for several reasons: first of all, the film was a little complicated and, at times, unbelievable; second of all, I still find it hard to explain and understand the premises and meaning of the movie myself; third of all, all of that just put me off wanting to write it. But I really do have to, so this is my attempt (sorry if I screw it up).

Holy Motors is directed and written by Leos Carax, about...well, here's where things get complicated. The official synopsis on IMDb says: "From dawn to dusk, a few hours in the life of Monsieur Oscar, a shadowy character who journeys from one life to the next. He is, in turn, captain of industry, assassin, beggar, monster, family man..." I believe that it is about a man who gets payed to fulfill other people's dreams and wild imagination, living this fantasy for different period of times(5 minutes or a while night). Basically, that is what he does all day: running around Paris, whilst being driven by an older lady in a white limo, from job to job, doing crazy, unexpected and sometimes, confusing things.

Despite its madness and WTF factor, Holy Motors is definitely intriguing. You are fascinated by the crazy actions, and although, at some point, you might have the tendency to give up, it still keeps you asking questions: is that girl really his? who is Kylie Minogue's character and what does she mean to him? Is it all a dream? Who is the agency? and so many more like that. I won't even talk about the end, because it mean to spoil the film for you, but let's just say that it 1. Clarifies the name for me but 2. Confuses me even more on a more general level of the story. Again, wtf?

From a filmmaker's point of view, it was quite good. Interesting direction, to match its course of action, the score fitted it very well and special props to the make-up department for some of the scenes. Denis Lavant as the main character, Mr.Oscar, is fantastic and I am surprised he hasn't received more praise for his work, but then again, I also think Holy Motors, because of its originality, will, most likely, be left out of the awards season, so ultimately, it doesn't surprise me. Eva Mendez and Kylie Minogue play their parts to the T, but don't get overly excited, there's not too much going on for their characters, in terms of complexity or action.

I know a lot of people didn't have the patience or, better said, were not drawn into the story enough to stay focused or give a shit by the end of it, but for me, it was definitely interesting to watch and experience. I was outraged, shocked, confused, but ultimately, intrigued by it. I can't and won't say too much of it (because I don't want to and, as I said before, I can't)- you need to experience it yourself, but I believe you should give it a try when it comes to your cinemas or local DVD store. Curious to see what you think of it.

12 comments:

  1. Sounds almost like Quantum Leap the movie. I would still love to see this if it eventually comes to my area. How was the cinematography?

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    1. It was pretty good- nothing outstanding for me, but a very well made film, considering what was happening!

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  2. I really loved Holy Motors :) I think it's a commentary on cinema itself, on the act of 'watching' - the way people watch Oscar. That's only a thought though, and I haven't written about it for the same reasons you listed - I don't know where to begin. All I'd say was 'This was a great film, go see it!' haha
    I loved the intermission, and Denis Lavant is amazing! So thrilled that he got to dance (I don't know if you've seen Beau Travail, but if you have, you'll know why I was so eager for some dancing action!)

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    1. :) I get why you didn't write it, I had the same feeling for a long time. As for Denis Lavant, I haven't seen him before in any movies, so I don't know about the dance scene you were referring to.

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  3. Great review. Can't wait to see it. If you want to check out more of Leos Carax's work, I'd recommend seeing The Lovers on the Bridge. It's a 1991 film he wrote/directed starring Denis Lavant and Juliette Binoche.

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    1. Thanks for the recommendation, I will put it on my list :)

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  4. Great review! I read some things about this one on Andy Buckle's blog but I still have little or almost no idea what the movie is about :) Your revieew made it sound very interesting, quite surreal too, so I'll probably try to catch it on DVD.

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    1. Please do, or even in cinemas if you have the chance, it is very intriguing and cool!

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  5. I completely understand why you had trouble writing this review Diana. It is a fascinating film, but a confounding one. What I loved about it - and this is why I think it is essential not to spoil anything - is how one has no idea what to expect next. It is all about discovering the episodes yourself and experiencing them in your own way. It makes some thought-provoking comments on cinema and spectatorship and the technological advances of the modern world. It poses a lot of questions - but I think there are some answers there too. Lavant is amazing - best performance of the year - and the interlude will never ever be forgotten. Nice write-up. Glad you enjoyed it.

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    1. Thanks Andy, glad to see you enjoyed it- you are right, it's not for everyone, but those who are intrigued by it or understand it are well rewarded!

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  6. Just got notice that I'll be receiving a screener of this film soon.

    You're getting me more and more excited. Thanks, Diana.

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    1. Glad to help, you should be excited, it's a wild ride, i think you will like it

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