Screening Log, January 2008

No Country For Old Men
USA / 2007

Since I began thinking critically about cinema, I’ve placed the lion’s share of my attention on the director above the other elements of a work. No Country For Old Men may be the film that shifts my focus to the actors. Javier Bardem and Tommy Lee Jones turn in two of the most gripping performances of the past decade, bringing an authenticity to their roles that is frightening and alluring. Bardem’s eyes by themselves are worthy of a Best Supporting Actor nod and Jones’ world-weary sighs speak more than some entire screenplays. The fact that the film lacks any of the trademark “Coen Brothers touches” proves their brilliance: they know when to stand back and let the material speak for them.

by David Carter | Source: 35mm Print
05 Jan 2008 11:33 PM | Submit Comment


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