Derek Cianfrance is an ambitious young director, and The Place Beyond Pines is his attempt at a masterpiece. It's long, complicated, and mythic in its scope.
It's part Shakespeare in its treatment of the legacy that fathers leave their sons.
It's Dickensian in its length and its exploration of poverty and desperation.
And Springsteen-esque in its portrayal of working class America.
This is a divisive movie. Critics applauded its aspirations, but ultimately felt that parts of the film were stronger than others.
Your Task
- Give your review of the film.
- Does Cianfrance succeed or is the film uneven? Explain.
- Explain the film's connection to the archetypal Hamlet.
- How is the film's treatment/exploration of fathers and sons similar to Hamlet's?
Your responses must be posted as comments to this post.
Responses are due before Friday (10/24) of this week.
