Coen Brothers Triumph Again

Rating: 8/10 (3 June 2008)

The ingenious Coen brothers return triumphantly with this amazing tale of kidnapping gone horribly wrong. I say ingenious because the brothers Coen brought us that gangster masterpiece, "Miller's Crossing". And I say amazing simply due to the fact that the tale told in "Fargo" is based upon actual events that took place in Minnesota.
The brothers' odd way of looking at life is reflected in the screenplay from the pair and Joel's comic, slightly off-centre approach to what is essentially a horrifying story of a man's fatally destined plot to get together enough money to support a wild business venture. In the hands of the Coen brothers though it comes across almost like a satire, in which the audience will find themselves constantly laughing - when their mouths are not agape.
Editor Roderick Jaynes has done a fine job keeping the story punchy and pepped up, Roger Deakins' cinematography is eye catching and contains some snow scenes you may not quickly forget and Carter Burwell's distinct score adds real flavour to proceedings, though it's not as good as his sweeping, poetic music from "Miller's Crossing". It is the cast that are the real strength here however.
Frances McDormand gobbles up the lead role as Marge Gunderson, the local cop who seems to stumble on clue after clue to the disappearance of Jean Lundegaard (Kristin Rudrud) while always maintaining a most infectious demeanour. Even more impressive is William H. Macy as Jerry Lundegaard, the weak-kneed husband whose crazy plan backfires more than an old bus and whose silly smile and pathetic machinations dig him deeper and deeper into oblivion. Steve Buscemi is very enjoyable as the weaselly, "funny lookin'" Carl who goes form Mr. Smooth to Mr. Insane as the deal goes from bad to worse to completely nuts. Finally, as Gaear, the menacing, quiet partner, Peter Stormare has us quite convinced he is one guy you wouldn't want to cross. Also stars Harve Presnell and John Carroll Lynch.
Monday, February 17, 1997 - Hoyts Croydon
The genius of the brothers Coen shines again in this manipulative, surprising thriller/comedy/tragedy whose many shallow characters give it much depth.
Brilliant perfs from McDormand and support bring to life this quirky collection of people, many of whom totally lose the plot when it comes to kidnapping and large amounts of the green. Cinematography in America's white-washed North is fantastic as is Carter Burwell's apt score.
The Coen brothers may well be the screenplay kings of the 90's.
Sunday, November 23, 1997 - Video