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Screening Log, December 2006

Half Nelson
USA / 2006

My viewing of Half Nelson follows nicely upon our discussion of the rather dreadful final shot of The Departedfind myself rather fascinated by these otherwise great films that have bad or insufficient endings. In certain cases (War of the Worlds is a favorite example), an ending can be so unconvincing that it calls into question the intention of the film as a whole, opening fissures in what might otherwise appear (or even desire to be) a neat and tidy narrative. Here, however, I think the filmmakers were simply unsure of themselves. Wavering between an ending that’s optimistic and one that’s pointedly ambiguous, the filmmakers give us an essentially meaningless final scene, one that is not even representative of the characters’ relation to one another throughout the rest of the film.

is a pity, as the film is excellent (and surprisingly funny) in almost ever way prior to its (non-)conclusion. The acting is exceptional, dialogue evocative, and characters thoroughly sympathetic. Relentless (per Mr. Blanks) and clichéed as the cinematography may be, I found it worked well on the small screen at least, and captures perfectly a Brooklyn that is recognizable without being overfamiliar. (There’s a very nice cameo of the Gowanus Canal.) All of the above reservations aside, I’m very glad this film is receiving its recent accolades, as there have been few recent American films (especially American “independent” films) that are nearly as socially committed and well made as this.

Tom’s review | Rumsey’s thoughts

by Leo Goldsmith | Source: ThinkFilm DVD Screener
04 Dec 2006 1:00 PM | Comments (1)

Comments / 1 total / Submit Comment

1. rob
   6 December 2006
   3:37 AM
   Website

   Missed this at the local art house; praise Netflix. I like the acknowledgment of how artistically typical or even mediocre elements (i.e. cliched cinematography) can actually be employed in service of an overall greater experience. Obvious stuff, I know, but damn it’s irritating when people fault films for not being revolutionary from top to bottom.

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