The art of conversation

Rating: 9/10 (5 February 2004)

Here is a a film where characters actually talk and listen like actual human beings, and is worthy of all the accolades it has received. The chemistry and connection that the two leads have is completely unforced.Bill Murray, and the (oscar shunned!!!) Scarlett Johannson forge an affection that stems from their total disconnect from their current culture. The only time the movie meanders is during the middle sections when the Murray and Johannson characters are out on the town with her friends. Who are they? None of them are developed, but this is a minor quibble in an otherwise superb look at a budding friendship and possibly more. There is an open ended finale that will leave viewers with a couple of possible outcomes. The virgin suicides and now this, Sofia Coppola is a new voice in the women's arena,certainly one to keep an eye on.