Saturday, May 28, 2011

Movie review - “True Grit” (2010) **1/2

I know this makes me a cinematic philistine but I’ve never warmed to the Coen brothers. Their skill and talent are beyond question, as are their intelligence, and I rejoice in their continued success because they’re not cookie cutter Hollywood. Still, their films leave me cold. Jeff Bridges is fine as Rooster Cogburn, but I missed the fatter, more charismatic John Wayne. Hailee Steinfeld is wonderful, as is the period detail and the language (from the novel). Josh Brolin is effective in a small role and Barry Pepper even better. The sudden outbursts of violence are expertly done, I’m glad it was a big hit. Still, I’ve got to admit – didn’t really go for it.

No comments: