Films that focus on musicians, artists, or athletes, tend to follow the target character on a journey from the depths of nothing to the riches of success. We watch as the protagonist takes a journey – literally and figuratively – learning about themselves and forging a perfect relationship with others, concluding with the invariable breakout song or hoisting of some previous eluded trophy. Written and directed by the enigmatic Coen brothers, the 2013 comedy-drama “Inside Llewyn Davis” takes the opposite approach.
Inspired by the real life story of musician Dave Van Ronk, “Inside Llewyn Davis” won the Grand Prix at its premiere at the Cannes Film Festival in 2013 and was nominated for two Academy Awards. The movie combines superb acting with a perfect story and great music, with a finished product that will leave you wanting more.
Set in 1961, the film follows the struggles of folk singer Llewyn Davis (Oscar Isaac) as he attempts to make a living in the pursuit of his lifelong dream. Broke and homeless, Davis takes chump change doing recording sessions and playing gigs at various small venues (such as the historic Gaslight Café in Greenwich Village) and spends his nights sleeping on the couches and floors of an assortment of acquaintances and friends.
Llewyn is unsuccessfully attempting to push a solo record he has recently completed – his former musical partner having committed suicide sometime prior to the events of the film, with his shifty agent assuring him it will take time for people to know he is now a solo act. Llewyn unflappably replies “no one knew us when we were a duo.”
The film follows a week in Llewyn’s life, interacting with a host of characters that he has different histories with – from former-fling Jean (Carey Mulligan) to friend Mitch Gorfein (Ethan Phillips). Llewyn meanders about the frigid backdrop of New York with his guitar in one hand and the Gorfeins cat (who he inadvertently allowed to escape their home) in the other.
“Inside Llewyn Davis” is a masterful film that highlights the immense talents of Oscar Isaac – an actor many in the mainstream may be unfamiliar with. Isaac is the perfect choice for the role of the fictitious Davis, a man that suffers in pursuit of his one true passion, and won’t sell out though opportunities to do so are abound. Isaac – who also plays guitar and sings his own parts – is a highly talented man and poised for big stardom. As he goes from couch to couch with nothing but his guitar and the veil of failure, the viewer will feel like they are with him each and every step of the way.
The secondary characters are strong as well. Carey Mulligan is a shrewd choice as the feisty former love, obviously spurned at the hands of a musician she once cared deeply for. Her current beau Jim is played by Justin Timberlake, someone we all love to dismiss but has proven to be a capable actor in small doses.
On a road trip to Chicago, Llewyn is introduced to boastful jazz musician Roland Turner (Coen brothers veteran John Goodman) who adds a sprinkling of intense humor in a short span as he chastises the genre of folk music and Llewyn’s lifelong dreams along the drive. “He threw himself off the George Washington Bridge?” Roland questions when Llewyn informs him of his former band mate. “Who does that? You throw yourself off the Brooklyn Bridge traditionally.”
“Inside Llewyn Davis” tells a different type of story. Rather than the glitz and glam of showbiz, it reveals the plight and struggles of the other 99.99% who in most cases are equally if not more talented but never make it.
The story is one of a kind and the range of Oscar Isaac is intense. The tone of the film reminds me of another Coen brothers gem, “Fargo,” which is one of my all time favorites. Set aside a place for it on your DVD shelf. Like “Fargo,” “Inside Llewyn Davis” is the type of film you will relish and think about, and want to watch again and again.
by – Matt Christopher
1 Comment
The film and music were ok but oscar performance gets an a.