A dull, hackneyed movie

Rating: 3/10 (16 February 2009)

I was very excited about going to see this film but it was a spectacular disappointment.
It is a very contrived film and any hint of originality is ruined by being presented in a heavy handed and clumsy way. There are grandiose attempts at profundity that come across as awkward and contrived. This is particularly apparent in the attempt to picture the alcoholic, tattooist, tug-boat captain as an artist - it might have worked with a different director or better script but in this situation it is trite and blatant. Also, watch out for the hummingbird...
The script is also packed with absurd lines that I think were meant to be profound and insightful but are downright banal and obvious leaving one with the urge to laugh in embarrassment. The characters are unlikeable and self-absorbed (he abandons his wife and child without any good reason). Some of the minor characters are very interesting, namely Mr Gateau and Tilda Swinton's character and their stories would perhaps have made the better film.
What has happened to Brad Pitt? He couldn't carry this movie but perhaps no one could have. You leave with the distinct impression that a committee set out to create an 'original' and 'beautiful' film, utilised the most clichÃ©d lines and scenes in their arsenal and managed to produce a hackneyed, dull and ugly movie.