CLEMENTINE'S REVIEWS

10th February 2010
Franklyn (2009)

Director: Gerald McMorrow
Writer: Gerald McMorrow
Starring: Eva Green, Ryan Phillippe, Sam Riley, Bernard Hill.

Three strangers each with their own personal struggle will discover how their separate worlds will cross paths. Part steam punk, part contemporary London, this multiple character drama will take us on layered journey. Its probably best to go into this film not knowing too much about the premise, suffice to say the unfolding of the story is the experience.

I must then speak about the impressive cinematography. Stylistically sophisticated and very beautifully filmed, the shots are thoughtful, certain images are heavy with symbolism, and some compositions with their sparse colour remain in my visual memory.

As an ensemble, the cast is quite good. As the stand out for me in this film, Green speaks controlled volumes, her sombre character has some stereotypical flaws but her impressive acting says more with a stare or a smile than could be held in words, elevating the role out of the script. Phillippe has aged a lot on screen. His subtly adds to the mystery of his character. I feel a little mixed about Riley, he doesnt sit as seamlessly into the world as the others, is he a little too pretty, is he a little too awkward? Or does that suit his character? Up to you to decide. Bernard Hill's quietly searching sadness is great to watch.

I did enjoy the playing out of the story, revealing our answers bit by bit, and the fantasy elements. There was nothing I could complain about. I think Id prefer not to explain too much for your enjoyment. This film is probably not very suitable for people who prefer high octane action, thrillers, blockbusters, or larger than life characters. The main merits of this film are the subtly complexities, intellectual storytelling, and the negative space.

Verdict: A mysterious parcel of otherworldly intrigue and personal journeys stylishly imagined.