fresh air from Coppola!

Rating: 9/10 (1 June 2005)

I have just watched 'Lost in Translation' for the first time. I apologise if I sound like I am the only one who has ever seen it but it is so rare to come across a film as accomplished as this is.
What makes it so refreshing is Coppola's skills of narrative development, which is so sadly lacking in most 'quick-fix/high drama/histrionic acting/special effects' mainstream cinema. Those who found the film dull, plot less etc etc were no doubt suffering withdrawal symptoms from gorging on this easily obtained diet.
Coppola's narrative development was almost novelistic in the careful, understated, impressionistic way the central relationship was developed. Refreshingly, she granted her audience with intelligence and the patience to follow her leads. In fact I think a lot of directors should take some time off and immerse themselves in the 19th century novel and see what they might learn from the kind of exegesis that the practitioners of that art exemplify. They will find surprising similarities rather than startling differences between the two forms. Coppola does not need that lesson.
Howwever, the director's talents could only be realised by the quality of the acting. I had to check on Johansson's age to verify that she really was as young as I thought. She reminded me of many of Britain's fine, middle aged actresses who bring twenty years of life and acting experience to their roles. I only hope her obvious beauty does not lead her in the wrong direction.
At a time when the Star Wars Juggernaut has recently rolled into town again, it is reassuring to be reminded that somewhere out there real talent lives on.