Closer

Finally got the chance to see the film I'd been going on about for months... and I was not disappointed, not in the least. Various criticisms of the film in recent reviews encouraged me rather than put me off, and the proof in the pudding demonstrated clearly why this is a film that will divide audiences and critics: firstly it depends on how you feel and relate to the subject matter; secondly it depends on what kind of moviegoer you are - if you like escapism, abc storytelling or indeed realism it may not be your thing, but if you like well scripted, beautifully acted drama with an arthouse sensibilty and an overwhelming sense of cinema (like me) then this will blow you away. Yes, it is stylised and shows unmistakable signs of a stage translation, but to say it is unrealistic and/or has unsympathetic characters is missing the point. The issues and scenes created here are very disturbing, and they are so because on some level they are things we all think, do or are terrified of, what can be more real than that? All four actors are on sparkling form, Natalie Portman especially deserves the accolades she is getting, a coming of age indeed! Filled with a banquet of beautiful moments and a stella ending, it is the kind of film from which you never forget the way you felt as the credits roll. Classy and essential, even if you end up hating it. Kx