Through The Rear Window: MOVIE REVIEW ... COSMOPOLIS

Tuesday, August 7, 2012

MOVIE REVIEW ... COSMOPOLIS

Director David Cronenberg has always made films his way. Maybe that’s why he has endured as his clinical approach in telling stories has made his movies interesting. ‘Cosmopolis’ is no exception with the glacially emotive characters drifting through life in a haze. Although his creative flourishes have left some unmoved, his quirky skills are to be savoured in an era of increased cinematic conformity.

Eric Packer (Robert Pattinson) is a self-made billionaire. Living in luxury and unafraid of using his wealth for increased opulence, his life is one many would envy. Whilst travelling in his limousine events suddenly spiral out of control with sex, power and murder converging. As time runs out he soon realises how little sway money brings when faced with danger.

‘Cosmopolis’ presents the chilliest collection of characters Cronenberg has produced. With Eric on a self-destructive path and provoking all who cross his path, his cold manner would make watching him rather unbearable. Occasionally it is with Cronenberg’s self-indulgent script refusing to emotionally connect. This dis-regard for character motivation isn’t anything new although even at its most infuriating it is difficult not to be intrigued as to where the story may lead.

Succeeding at inhabiting his strange role Pattinson manages not to look too lost in the increasingly complex script. He works well against a strong cast attempting to convey their character’s empty existence. The blending of their wealthy life-style and anti-capitalism protestors shows successfully the closeted world in which they reside and how outside forces determine to undermine it.

Crafting yet another puzzling movie, Cronenberg ensures ‘Cosmopolis’ stays with you. Whilst having its problems even a lukewarm effort from him maintains engagement and he again places his unique stamp on yet another enigmatic enterprise.