Escapism Beyond Limits

Rating: 7/10 (27 January 2014)

The Secret Life of Walter Mitty heightens James Thurber's short story into a large scaled inspirational film about making big dreams come true. It's a nice way to suit for the idea. There is a makings for a totally endearing picture. Director Ben Stiller obviously pours a lot of ambition to the film which brings an absolute visual stunner. It may have pushed the fantasy stuff too hard, even at the scenes that aren't even imaginary anymore, but then it still manages to provide plenty of charms in every moment.
The adventurous parts feel nothing more than a simple dazzler, it's a much compelling movie when it focuses on Mitty's everyday life by getting to know about him. Keeping him in his dull ordinary reality reveals his special daydreaming. It's quite decent when it comes to the characterization of his fancy condition, relationship with the good people around him, and lack of assertiveness to the mean strangers; which results a pleasant and admirable enough portrait to show the simplicity of the character's loop cycle. When it separates him from the ordinary world, it becomes a different movie. This is where it is free to express its dazzling panache, showing off its cinematic creativity. While they all look good, they seem nothing more than whimsical images to impress the viewers how spectacular these exteriors look. It doesn't exactly help the plot that much, other than putting Mitty away from his comfort zone and searching for Sean O'Connell.
The largeness of the journey also kind of brought a little inconsistency, like ever since Walter begins traveling, it just strays the extraordinary anywhere and cares less about the difference between the impossible of his imagination and their reality. It would have make more sense if the daring situations didn't happen too quick, but again we shouldn't fault for someone who wants to make things creative. This certain (and silly) flaw won't be a big deal if you don't think too much about it. Besides, it's actually not a bad thing. The cinematography and the special effects brim wonder and that's all what you need to know.
It's difficult to dislike The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, the same way it's difficult to dislike Ben Stiller in movies, even when it unbalances the unbelievable and incredibly fills with creepy amount of product placements. But who wouldn't enjoy a light entertainment that tends to inspire and has a very likable lead character? Because when blockbusters go dark, you sometimes need a pleasant escapism that serves undeniable lovely warmth. It's not yet the perfect vision you expected, but all the hipsteristic filmmaking and genuine heart still makes it worth the experience.