Sunday, March 1, 2009

Movie of the Month - Closer

When certain artistic formats try and transfer over to another medium, it is either hit or miss. The 2004 film Closer, directed by Mike Nichols, is one of those films that transfers and hits incredibly. Originally a play in London's West End by Patrick Marber, Nichols had become inspired to make it into a film after witnessing the stage performance. Marber would work with Nichols to adapt the play into a screenplay. The film, which stars Julia Roberts, Natalie Portman, Jude Law and Clive Owen (in his best role to date), struck a chord with audiences world wide. Set in modern London, it is a film with intersecting stories and intersecting love lives. Rather complicated to explain in text, the idea is who is cheating on who or who is being honest with who in modern relationships. By the end of its 98 minute run, Closer has you saying "wow." Powerful performances, brilliant writing and talent beyond belief both in front of and behind the camera. Natalie Portman and Clive Owen would both walk away with Golden Globe Awards and Oscar Nominations for their roles, yet all involved are just electric. Backed by a great soundtrack featuring The Smiths, The Prodigy, and Damien Rice, Closer is one film not to be missed.