CLEMENTINE'S REVIEWS

21st April 2010
New York I Love You (2009)

Writer Director Starring: Okay normally I'd list them but as a collection of short films there's a lengthy list so I'm sending you to imdb http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0808399/fullcredits#directors

Each director was given the same criteria - the theme of love, one week to film, and the backdrop of New York. It's definitely not for everyone. This is a collection of vignettes, romantic snippets from people's lives without a direct narrative, a strict beginning or conclusion. If you love just a fleeting moment, or a little insight into someone's thoughts, this could be for you.

Some of the stories are a lot better put together than others. Notably the Catherine X and Shia LaBeouf story which is reminiscent of a Lynch daydream - in a good way. Cloris Leechman and Eli Wallach pack such a punch with their performances, natural, comedic perfection, excellent, easily the favourite as an old loving couple who will remind you of someone you know - maybe yourself to come. As time is restrictive in the amount pf story we can unfold, some some plots run much more effectively than others - Bradley Cooper and X have a sweet concept but could use some reworking with a gentler hand. The painter and the herbalist is neither here nor there, yet it's message is everyway. It's a common hurdle with short films, trying to be effective without being too obvious. Putting aside the heavy handedness and plot contrivances (combined with a few poorly chosen actors), it is likable entertainment with a great directorial debut by Natalie Portman.

Verdict: This star studded film is perfect for those who enjoy the poetry of love more than the story.