This movie is a visual masterpiece! Stunning photography, camera placement and motion was a feast for this writer's eyes. So much so, that I feel compelled to write my first review. The whole mood of the film was engaging and the acting - pitch perfect. I was unfamiliar with any of the actors, however I feel their performances can not be rivaled. The musical score was fitting and necessarily punctuates the mood. I am not in the motion picture business, and certainly not qualified to judge the technical aspects of such, but I am so glad I ran across this film and I would definitely recommend Bye Bye Blackbird to anyone.
... View MoreJust saw this at a special screening in LA at the American Cinematheque. I normally like most French films, even ones that aren't great. This, however, isn't a French film for about 98% of its running time (the leading man is French, but the entire film save for one scene, is in English - and bad English at that). I couldn't wait to come here to the IMDb because I just knew I'd find some raves - as I was watching this dreadful film I thought no one in their right mind could rave about this - but I always underestimate the people who "review" or stick up their thoughts for the world to read.This film wants so badly to be poetic - pathetic, maybe, poetic, never. The dialogue is wretched, the plot is non-existent, as are the characters. Poor Derek Jacobi eats every piece of scenery in view. The director is a young person, and he's so in love with his little film-school homages and art, but like most youngsters who get to make films these days, he had no clue as to how to tell a story or make an audience give a flying Wallenda about anything they are seeing.I don't know what film the "ravers" saw, but it sure wasn't this one. Different strokes for different folks? I guess there IS a sucker born every minute.
... View MoreI just got after seeing this film at the European Film Festival in Vancouver, and I have to say, I was very disappointed with this film. I had no idea what it was about going in, and it was such a waste of a night. Sure, it was beautiful to look at, but it was pointless. Little nuggets of info are dropped, only to never be touched on again. The tone was all over the place, and I was bored stiff. At some points, I thought that the filmmakers were going for a sense of dread, only to have nothing come of it. And the big plot point in the film is absolutely retarded, as it's basically thrown out the window at the end, by the sudden appearance of a character. All in all, DO NOT waste your money.
... View MoreThe first portion of this film is gorgeous and mysterious and mesmerizing. Then it just degenerates into strange soliloquies and depression. It even adds a bit of depravity thrown in for good measure. It's as if the writer was trying to say something profound. But he really doesn't. It's a confusing mess at the end. The pacing, editing, design, and even the acting are so wonderful in the first part of the film. Unfortunately, most of these elements become tiresome by the end. Such a shame because the first 3/5th of the film is really amazing. Wish they'd taken more time to flesh out the ending.I'd still recommend seeing it though. This director should have a bright future. I would watch it again myself.
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