This is a movie that I wouldn’t have watched if it hadn’t been for fate guiding me to another film – “Sideways” (you can also find a review of it on the website, I encourage you to read it).
These pictures have two common features: the author of script and the director is Alexander Payne. Both films received an Oscar in nomination “Best Writing, Adapted Screenplay”. Immediately after watching, I felt compelled to write a movie review, because mood and emotions were wonderful, so let’s start.
If “Sideways” (2004) I watched because it is a movie about a writer (I collect them and the list can be found in the post of the same name), then “The Descendants” (2011) was interesting to me as another example of a wonderful work, a screenplay that is also directly related to writing.
I must say, I really enjoyed the movie. If it wasn’t so perfect and genuinely well-executed, I would delve into more detail and provide an analysis instead of just an overview. However, there is one aspect (which I’ll discuss below) that prevents this work from being a masterpiece, but rather makes it a pleasant example of excellent and high-quality modern cinema.
Versatility
The hallmark of great films lies in their complexity and depth. “The Descendants” (2011) is no exception, as it successfully explores and intertwines various overarching themes, creating an inimitable and unique tapestry enriched by the director’s style and outstanding performances.
This is the kind of movie that can be enjoyed with the whole family, where you find yourselves hugging each other every five minutes, alternating between tears and laughter in response to the clever and sophisticated humor, and smiling at the relatable life situations portrayed.
Movies like “The Descendants” (2011) leave no one untouched; there is something for everyone. Whether it’s shedding a few tears, bursting into laughter, or simply marveling at the incomparable George Clooney‘s performance, there’s no shortage of captivating moments.
Script for the film “The Descendants” (2011)
This is one of those cases where the film’s Oscar win is fully deserved and easily understandable. The uniqueness of this movie lies in its dynamic pacing, the distinctive style of the screenwriter (who is also the director), and the constant tension and grandeur it presents. Alexander Payne works his magic with the plot, a second time creating a film that he himself conceived and brought to life. He wrote the script specifically for himself and crafted the movie in a way that showcases his strengths.
The pacing is neither fast nor slow, with the actors consistently delivering expressive performances. The intrigue remains until the very end, and a delicate balance of tension, warmth, rage, humanity, gratitude, and revenge competes for the audience’s attention. This delightful cocktail of emotions surprises and captivates.
Somewhere in the middle of the film, one starts to experience a pleasant fatigue from immersing oneself in this work of art. The plot is so dense, intense, simple, relatable, and true-to-life that it’s hard to believe the second half could be equally vibrant and dynamic. But it is!
Surprisingly, this film truly deserves respect and attention. The script is flawless, engaging, and flirts with the viewer, allowing ample time for reflection and shared experiences with the characters.
Theses in the movie “The Descendants” (2011)
As I mentioned earlier, this masterpiece is brimming with a multitude of themes that not only impress with their diversity, but also captivate with their clever exploration and illumination.
Family, lineage, parent-child relationships, marital bonds, betrayal, kinship, love, infatuation, death, and fate – these topics emerge to the surface, delicately touching the viewer and often peering into the depths of the soul with silent questions, eagerly awaiting a connection.
The film successfully weaves in the meanings of life, money, and the influence individuals have on one another, creating a complex tapestry of interconnectedness.
I’m inclined to watch this movie multiple times to experience once again the rhythm it sets, the storytelling prowess (a heartfelt nod to the screenwriter), and the seamless fusion of all the elements into a marvelous flow that unfolds before the viewer’s eyes.
Music, color in the film “The Descendants” (2011)
I’m combining these points under one heading because they are equally remarkable, if not flawless.
As a visually oriented person, I derived incredible pleasure from the vibrant cinematography.
The colors practically leap off the screen, eager to envelop you and infuse authenticity and life. It’s a feast for the eyes, even in the midst of somber moments.
The music is exceptionally clever, almost like an extension of the characters’ dialogues, their thoughts, emotions, and overall mood. It ranks among the best soundtracks I’ve ever heard.
However, there’s no time for excessive excitement and verbal applause. To provide a genuine review of the film “The Descendants” (2011), I must address the aspects that didn’t quite resonate with me.
Disadvantages
The first thing that captures my attention is the transformation of the main character. It’s intriguing to witness how he evolves from an ostensibly inattentive, superficial, and materialistic husband (and father) into a more sensitive, engaged, and motivated individual. The changes occur so abruptly and dramatically that it raises the question: “Where were all these qualities hidden before?”
He had lived a long life, been married for many years, and had children and close relatives. And yet, his transition to this “new level” seemingly takes place under supposedly critical circumstances. Frankly, I find it hard to believe in the plausibility of such a transformation.
If he truly possessed these wonderful qualities deep within, they wouldn’t have remained entirely concealed from the world. They would have manifested themselves in some way, rather than leading to such a stark contrast and the situations portrayed in the film.
Likewise, I find it difficult to believe that if the main character was genuinely a “bad” father and husband, he could undergo such a dramatic and solely positive change. It appears too saccharine, as depicted by the creators, from start to finish.
The second drawback, in my opinion, is the supporting male role of Sid, portrayed by Nick Krause. Not only does he fail to make a significant impact within the family dynamic (in terms of character development), but his acting performance also falls disappointingly short of the level set by the rest of the cast.
Sid seems to have been primarily created for a few clever lines and, perhaps, to bring some balance to the ensemble of characters on screen. I understand that without him, the dynamics would be slightly different and less intriguing.
Conclusions
I won’t deny that my review carries the sweet taste of a viewer who has been pleasantly impressed. However, it remains true to my experience, so why should I hide my admiration? I’m simply attempting to articulate my emotions.
In my opinion, the screenplay is flawless and deserving of the most prestigious award in cinema. The fact that the director and screenwriter are one and the same worked in his favor. Alexander Payne was truly able to fully unravel the underlying meanings and wrap them in a delightful package of music and visually captivating scenes.
George Clooney’s performance is also impeccable, although I found his character to be somewhat unrealistic, much like Sid.
This lively, profound, dynamic, and action-packed drama captivates viewers and gently nudges them to contemplate and, for many, I’m certain, reassess their values.
Despite my review carrying an overall positive tone, I can’t label this film as a masterpiece. It falls just short of making it onto my list of the best films. However, even considering these circumstances,
I strongly recommend to watch.
My rating of the film “The Descendants” 8 out of 10
