A solid, symbolic character study from the Coen Brothers

Rating: 8/10 (29 January 2014)

Inside Llewyn Davis is the latest film from the Coen Brothers, a drama centred around the Folk scene in the winter of 1961 in New York City, following Llewyn Davis (Oscar Isaac), a folk singer who has a amazing ability to rub people the wrong way and sofa surfs around Greenwich Village, attempts to make a living on his music and struggling to survive as he maintains he fulfils his dreams.
Inside Llewyn Davis has an incredible cast with the likes of Isaac, Carey Mulligan, Justin Timberlake, John Goodman and Sally Hawkins. All of them give excellent performance and are armed with a sombre script that is still filled with wit and play well rounded and realised characters. Mulligan was blessed with the best lines and jokes in the film. The film has an excellent soundtrack, with songs sung live and performed in full.
Llewyn is a unlikeable character as he enters into a world of self-destruction as he tries to juggle his life and be successful, but gain quick money. But there is reason as he is struggling with his brief whilst the cat serves as a symbol of the ups and downs of journey and showcasing his character.
Inside Llewyn Davis has a great bleak look thanks to Bruno Delboonel, adding to the downbeat tone the Coens were going for as we follow Llewyn on his journey and see him into a vicious circle.
7.5/10