Weird and wonderful

Rating: 10/10 (16 November 2014)

Her is about a man who starts a relationship with his artificial operating system which is designed to meet his every need. I know, I know, but don't let that put you off. It may have the weirdest relationship in movie history, yet it's also one of the most touching and compelling I have seen. Despite the fact one of the people in the relationship isn't there and is just a computer, it's still a soulful, moving tale well deserving of the best picture nomination. Not something you'll see everyday, Her is a superb, moving, smart and at times hysterical science fiction drama. It will be a bit too bizarre for some and that's fine, but get past the weirdness and you're in for a treat. Visually, the film looks great and has a fascinating colour palette. Spike Jonze directs the film beautifully and his screenplay is downright phenomenal. It's funny, daring, moving and the dialogue is both magnetic and electrifying.
The film couldn't have worked without Scarlett Johansson's amazing voice acting, which makes the relationship feel believable and moving. Joaquin Phoenix gives an excellent understated performance as the main character. It's never boring, although at times it's a bit uncomfortable so overall it was a film where I was more or less engaged every minute. It's a weird, surreal experience but one which both a moving study of loneliness and smart social commentary of modern technology. It's my favourite of the best picture nominees and likely to be the one people truly remember in future. I definitely want to see more Spike Jonze stuff and I feel it's a shame this is only his fourth film as he's clearly a very talented director. Her is a very clever and sophisticated drama, and you won't find anything else like this from 2013. A modern classic, and a strange, dazzling and unique trip that's absolutely worth taking.
10/10