Not really a review ...

Rating: 9/10 (21 April 2007)

This is one of my favorite films of all time. However, I do not think it is brilliant as everyone says it is, hence my 9 out of 10 rating.
I believe it lacks a lot in terms of having a proper plot, and it does not seem to have a direction in terms of development. I find this to be true when I question the (budding) relationship between the two main characters. Are they falling in love? or could it be possible that they find a spiritually special connection that is essentially platonic between the two of them? The subjectivity of this question makes this film rather difficult to comprehend. The kiss at the end was unscripted - if Murray did not improvise, would everyone have considered them 'in love'? The karaoke scene is also pretty subjective - do their 'longing' glances mean that they are 'falling' for each other. OR could said glances suggest that they realize that they share this special platonic connection and/or realize that they are essentially platonic soul-mates? I couldn't decide between the two, because as I examined the latter choice, I realized that both choices could equally be possible.
The subjectivity of the relationship between the two main characters leaves a lot to be questioned/desired. However, I do find that the subjectivity of their relationship to have a rather mysterious factor to it. Yet, the subjectivity should not shroud the central theme; Finding that someone/being found by someone and sharing a special connection (be it platonic/romantic) is universal.
The piece comes through cohesively/coherently, surprisingly enough. I really believe Coppola lucked out on this one, having Murray (and Johansson) to cover for her script-writing deficiencies. The chemistry between the two is astounding. Murray particularly shines in this role, and it's sad to see him not get the Oscar for this role.
I would praise the film, but it's redundant to say what has already been said.
9/10