I have read reams and reams of southern gothic fiction, and August: Osage County fits right there squarely in that genre, with over the top drama, family dysfunction, alcoholism, incest and painful humor. That being said, I find southern gothic fiction somewhat tiresome, with the exception of Flannery O'Connor's short stories, and William Faulkner and Carson McCullers' novels, and this wasn't written by O'Connor, Faulkner or McCullers. I was also aware every single moment of this sweeping and somewhat entertaining film that Julia Roberts and Meryl Streep were in the cast and that they were ACTING.
It was stunning when I saw it on Broadway years ago. Funny--I have no desire to see the movie.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Denise -- it was PHENOMENAL on Broadway. But from what I hear the play was shortened by about an hour to make the movie, and I suspect some of the subtleties were lost. Also, on stage, I saw it with unknowns (to me) in the lead roles, so I didn't bump up against the Streep/Roberts problem.
ReplyDeleteI agree that was very act-y -- but the secondary characters were so great. I loved Chris Cooper and Margo Martindale and Benedict Cumberbatch -- they seemed much less act-y and the person who played Ivy was also great. And there is something to be said for a movie that makes one's own family seem surprisingly functional.
ReplyDeleteThat is my harshest critique of any movie- "I could see her acting!"
ReplyDeleteThere's a fine line, isn't there? And I hate it when it gets crossed.
You should read the play. Very well-written.
ReplyDeleteI could give you a three word review: I HATED IT.
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