Reviews

I normally wouldn't feel the need to leave negative comments on a film, but the fact that this is so highly lauded makes me feel the need to ask....what the hell are people smoking?? I watched this film several years ago at a Korean film festival, on the big screen, and I remember how furious I was that I wasted my time with this piece of crap over something far more worthwhile.

First of all, the plot is basically non-nonsensical. Looking back, I can remember something about a train, a guy on a motorcycle, a cowboy...and that's about it. Now, I'm totally fine with a film that highlights character, atmosphere, style, action - whatever - over plot. But this only works if the aforementioned things are actually engaging. But alas...all we are left with is simply a mess.

Which brings me to the action. This movie is very much in the anti-physics style of Michael Bay wherein we have no idea where or how things are happening. They. Just. Do. The average shot length seems to be about half a second. I found it all incredibly lame and dull. There's simply no continuity of action. It's like taking random words from a novel and mixing them up. It doesn't make a story.

As for the acting, the soundtrack, etc., I honestly can't remember a single detail.

Don't make the mistake I did. There are so many great films in the world to watch instead of this pile of crap. 1/10

After reading countless reviews and comments about how boring this film is and how Cronenberg missed the mark I just want to chime in with my own opinion.

I am a long-time Cronenberg fan. And I think he is at his best when he pushes the boundaries of cinema (Videodrome, Naked Lunch, Crash, etc.). This is a boundary-pushing film. It will upset a lot of people, but that's part of what this movie is about.

Honestly, without having read the novel or any sort of analysis about Cosmopolis it's hard to give a ready insightful review. I do know that the movie is dealing with some very heavy themes relating to capitalism and meaning.

Once you get onto this wave-length this film becomes exhilarating.

I think much of the dialogue in the film, and its apparent vacuousness, is an attempt to convey the loss of meaning resulting from the current state of capitalism. The banter, the back-and-forth, between each character is a search for real, meaningful connection.

With such a surplus of information, down to the most infinitesimal flow of capital, no one really understands what any of it means. The film itself is searching for meaning.

Cosmopolis takes a very daring approach to modern filmmaking and it succeeds, admirably I think.

If you want something that will prevent you from thinking or that will make you feel good, avoid this film at all costs. If you are open to intellectual engagement, Cosmopolis will feel like a warm bath.

I'm looking forward to a second viewing.