Meaning, Music & Magic.

Rating: 10/10 (20 October 2012)

I do not regularly write film reviews; I have probably not written a film review in years. This isn't because I haven't watch any good films. I have watched many classics over the last few years. This one in particular though is calling to me to write something about it.
In the past when I have written a film review or two, I don't think I was able to appreciate films in their proper way. Perhaps I hadn't cemented my values in my head back then.. Now, I know where I stand when I watch a film. I do not let anyone else's opinion of a film affect my enjoyment or lack-there-of and therefore my reception is not clouded. With this better appreciation, I now reflect and think that the old film reviews I may have written.. they may not have deserved the sentiment I wrote of. This film, however, this one without a doubt I will never look back on with less-than-true appreciation.
Firstly, this film has a soundtrack with, in my opinion, the most superior instrumental tracks. These transport you right into 'The Holiday'. Hans Zimmer deserves the many accolades he is regularly bestowed with. The music is crafted with care and plays like a thoughtful, whimsical, deep and real treat for those who listen and watch.
For me, it is the combination of the music and some superb scripting which can really hit someone, that makes this film the masterpiece it is.
-Arthur Abbott: "I counted. Nine movies are opening today. I remember when nine movies would open in a month. Now a picture has to make a killing the first weekend or they're dead.This is supposed to be conducive to great work?" ~Iris Simpkins: "Arthur, have you always been this feisty?" -Arthur Abbott: "Well, I may have slowed down a little, but yes. You've gotta fight the fight, kid."
Iris reflecting to Miles (on Jasper having been unfaithful): "I understand feeling as small and as insignificant as humanly possible. How it can actually ache in places that you didn't know you had inside you.It doesn't matter how many new haircuts you get... or gyms you join... or how many glasses of chardonnay you drink with girlfriends. You still go to bed every night going over every detail.. and wonder what you did wrong or how you could have misunderstood. And how in the hell, for that brief moment... you could think that you were that happy? And sometimes you can even convince yourself that he'll see the light and show up at your door. And after all that...however long "all that" may be...you'll go somewhere new. And you'll meet people who make you feel worthwhile again. And little pieces of your soul will finally come back. And all that fuzzy stuff...those years of your life that you wasted... ..that will eventually begin to fade..."
-Arthur Abbott: "Iris, in the movies we have leading ladies and we have the best friend.You, I can tell, are a leading lady. But for some reason, you're behaving like the best friend." ~Iris: "You're so right.You're supposed to be the leading lady of your own life, for God's sake."
The scripting works so well because the characters are incredibly relatable. Iris Simpkins & Miles are particularly good examples I believe as through watching them, we explore misgivings and insecurity as they love those who aren't treating them right. They are such genuine people who can be obsessive and flawed whilst inspirational and very decent.
I do not have a particular attachment to Jack Black at all. I do not have disdain for his acting either. What I have watched is usually neither here nor there (Probably closer to indifference than like in most films..). This film however, this portrayal of composer, Miles... Brilliant. Absolutely brilliant.
The raw emotion of Kate Winslet as she plays cheated-on Iris Simpkins: This also stands out to me.
Arthur Abbott is also a stand-out character. Possibly my favourite- without even being one of the title-four.. He comes across as a true veteran actor who plays a key role in the film, and reminds us of the classy old characters that Hollywood presented us with in the times of Casablanca & Rear Window. He just exudes wisdom and goodness.
Overall, I review this meaningful film as one which distills hope and intellect, wit & frustration, sadness and sophistication. All to a soundtrack of beauty. With both magnificent meaning and marvellous music delivered to an audience... The result is magic.
Watch it, one and all. Men and women.