A love letter to New Orleans

Rating: 10/10 (6 January 2009)

I actually went to see this film, not knowing that it was set in New Orleans. I knew only that it had gotten a negative review from Roger Ebert, a critic I respect. It sounded like basically a vanity project for Brad Pitt.
Yes, indeed, there is very much pride evident here, but it is pride in New Orleans rather than an overinflated ego. This is a love letter to New Orleans. I don't know of any other film which makes any better use of the city--it was even used for scenes set in Russia, Paris and New York. And it was also a period piece. I think the most remarkable fact about a nearly three hour film set in New Orleans is that there is not a single reference to Mardi Gras. Beyond this, the city and its history play an integral part of the story, rather than simply serving as a quaint backdrop.
I don't know of any accent that was misplaced. The production design and art direction were stunning.
With respect to the plot, the premise of a man being born old and growing younger would have served for the backdrop for a science fiction film. Or worse yet, a comedy. But the film makers here do not try to explore or explain Benjamin's condition. I think that the most uniquely New Orleans touch is that no character actually treats Benjamin like a freak.
If you must have an explanation, you will probably not like this film. The film makers tell you this with the opening story about the clock. In the real world, that situation would not be allowed to continue--not even in New Orleans.
The film avoids most of the major historical incidents and developments--those which are not needed for the story. For example, the racial segregation in New Orleans is simply ignored, since it would cause problems with the story. And I am not totally sure about the historical accuracy of the tugboat in WW2. But historical accuracy is not the point.
Even the final image is true only in a general sense, but not literally.
The acting was excellent. Brad was miscast and wasted in "Burn After Reading," but here he scores a major triumph. And Cate Blanchett may be in line for yet another Oscar. I have not seen all of 2008's films yet, but this is my favorite so far.
A line of dialogue, when Tilda Swinton asks Brad where he's from:
Brad-- New Orleans. (pause) Louisiana.
Tilda-- Is there more than one?