Monday, September 22, 2014

Film Review: Ned Benson's The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby: Them

How did a guy like Ned Benson who had merely 3 short films under his belt, make such an ambitious first feature film that earned him three films stemmed from the same concept, and starring the year's most surprisingly stellar and revered cast? And with The Weinstein Co's stamp of approval?! I hear Oscar bells already! No matter how much I would attribute his success to connections, his talent is clearly visible in this re-cut version of his initial two films, Him & Her with the The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby: Them.  

The story follows the dissolution of Eleanor (Jessica Chastain) and Connor's (James McAvoy) marriage after a tragic event occurs. As much as I had a gripe with it's mashed  up version of Him & Her, I thoroughly enjoyed Chastain's emotional roller coaster and the rest of the cast's genuine performances. This film had one of the most surprisingly stacked cast with Chastain, McAvoy, Isabelle Huppert, William Hurt, Viola Davis, Bill Hader, and Jess Weixler! WOW!

At times there were some missteps due to its sparse tones and beats but Benson undoubtedly knows how to create beautifully intimate moments between everyday people. The trailer insinuates that the blended version would've maybe showcased both sides of the same scenario throughout the film but I think it was simply edited that way promotional purposes for both of the films which I hope to see come October! But till then, watch my review for the Them version despite your ill feelings about its Beatles inspired title!