Written & Directed By: Bryan Fuller
Cinematography: Nicole Hirsch Whitaker
Editor: Lisa Lassek
Cast: Mads Mikkelsen, Sophie Sloan, Sigourney Weaver, Sheila Atim, David Dastmalchan, Rebecca Henderson, Lina Kruse, Caspar Phillipson
A dark fairy tale that is quite enchanting, but feels like it has a missing Ingredient to truly sparkle. Though it certainly shines.
Shot in the aspect ratio Of 3.00:1 which makes the film visually claustrophobic
This is writer-director Bryan fuller’s theatrical directorial debut film. One will admit to being a fan of his previous television work HANNIBAL, WONDERFALLS and PUSHING DAISIES
Especially as one respects his work. Was really wanted to love this film, but can’t say that I did. There was plenty to like. Though can’t say the film is a slam dunk. Can see why some really like it. Though it’s Magic didn’t completely work for me. There might have been too much whimsy.
This film is certainly imaginative seems more for adults but seems like it would greatly appeal to children just with it’s colors, beauty and creativity.
Told mostly from a child’s point of view. So while there is some adult material. It stays clean and never is vulgar.
Every detail meticulous especially by design to fit an be awe inspiring truly building it’s own universe and deeply immersive
Casting his MVP Mads Mikkelsen as his lead here. After having him previously play Dr. Hannibal Lector in HANNIBAL the television series
Mr. Mikkelsen on this role is memorable and quite flexible, though never imposing Though it does remind one of his previous performance as an assassin in the 2019 action film POLAR. Only here to much better effect and material.
Even like the private joke of the chicken lamp that references one of Mikkelsen’s previous film MEN & CHICKEN
It keeps Layering the story with reveals but it also seem to stop and start where it gets exciting and then drags and feels like it’s stretching out it’s
Time. So that the film stays fascinating but feels like it is working against itself as it wants to be episodic yet must be cohesive and take care of itself.
Stylistically inventive with a hint of the past and classic with modern age edge. It has a throwback quality, though more flash then Cartoonish though in the best way. This film will certainly have items fans and is worth looking into.
Grade: C+
