Inside Llewyn Davis (Coen Brothers)

johnny_ultimate

A relatively understated trailer from the Brothers Coen - the tale of a folk singer (Oscar Issac) in Greenwich Village, New York. The trailer wears its Dylan influence proudly through its music choice, and the visuals seem much more muted than the Coen norm. The cast also includes John Goodman, Justin Timberlake (of whom we catch but two brief glimpses) and F. Murray Abraham. Far too early to call, but the trailer hints that a newly-brunette Carey Mulligan may turn in a very memorable performance indeed.

LiamMc

Did you just review a Trailer? Good God.

e_e

Do Americans consider The Coen Brothers a national treasure yet? Because they very well should!

johnny_ultimate

LiamMc wrote: »

Did you just review a Trailer? Good God.

I made a few comments on what the trailer might lead us to expect from the film, which I've been very much looking forward to for a while now. Surprised there wasn't a thread on it already, actually. Don't really see how that's any different to the plethora of similar comments we see here everyday, based on less tangible things like rumours and photos. The Coens are also well known for putting together stylish trailers themselves to give the audience some cryptic hints about the film's overall tonal, visual and story identity.

It's ridiculous to in any way judge a film by its trailer, but its the first real opportunity for us to catch a glimpse of what a director might be aiming for with the finished project.

Sad Professor

On the Road must have made a bigger impression on me than I thought because everytime I see that thumbnail I find myself wondering what Dean Moriarty is doing in this.

Ole Rodrigo

Really looking forward to this. With O brother where art thou, it was almost as if they created a film around the music and I imagine this will have a similar feel. Shame its not out until the end of the year ( or is it 2014 ? )

delbertgrady

A pedant writes: his name is Llewyn.

Nice Drive reunion too.

johnny_ultimate

Later this year supposedly, which is disappointing if the film is ready for Cannes. Thought the Coen Brothers out of anyone could have earned a pretty prompt release.

JP Liz V1

Oscar Issac is an interesting choice for the lead only seen him in Robin Hood and Drive but he is suppose to be a good musician also

Ole Rodrigo

He was in the last Bourne film, and also had a bad guy role in that silly Jack Snyder film from a few years ago, Suckerpunch.

They have a knack for finding talented actors off the main radar and giving them something to sink their teeth into. Michael Stuhlbarg in A serious Man, and Hailee Steinfeld in True Grit for example.

TICKLE_ME_ELMO

You can listen to the entire soundtrack online now. Sounds amazing, I'll be buying the soundtrack whether I see the film or not

Slightly disappointed the Justin Timberlake/Carey Mulligan song isn't a cover of The Proclaimers

http://www.npr.org/2013/11/03/242103173/first-listen-soundtrack-inside-llewyn-davis

JP Liz V1

T-Bone Burnett strikes gold again

TICKLE_ME_ELMO

For some reason the (Irish) internet is losing it's **** over Justin Timberlake singing The Auld Triangle. It's not even him singing it, right? It's the guy from Punch Brothers. JT and Mumford are just in the group bit.

Mickeroo

TICKLE_ME_ELMO wrote: »

For some reason the (Irish) internet is losing it's **** over Justin Timberlake singing The Auld Triangle. It's not even him singing it, right? It's the guy from Punch Brothers. JT and Mumford are just in the group bit.

Ah, I was lead to believe by the hysteria it was him singing it, just with a pretend irish accent. It's been all over facebook all day.

TICKLE_ME_ELMO

It's Chris Thile from Punch Brothers singing it.

This video is from last year when Punch Brothers were on tour and they had Mumford come on and sing it with them and Chris explains at the start that they just recorded it for a film and he had to put a fake Irish accent on to sing it....

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PBcK0N8olBE

It's not a huge deal, I suppose, it's just really annoying me!

JP Liz V1

http://www.thewrap.com/inside-llewyn-davis-box-office-opening-coen-brothers-best-ever/

Very good opening weekend for Coens despite limited release so far

TICKLE_ME_ELMO

Reviewers on BBC 4's The Review Show kept calling it "too Mumford". I can't take anyone seriously who uses Mumford in that way. If the only thing you can say about a film is "too Mumford" you should probably stay quiet.

johnny_ultimate

The word 'melancholy' has already been used an awful lot in reviews of Inside Llewyn Davis, and well it's completely justified. For a film full of humour and lively folk music, the prevailing mood is intensely dour and miserable. It's a pretty heartbreaking account of one man's despondence, desperation and increasing apathy towards the art he should love. Heartbreaking might not be the right word, though, as the Coens and Issac paint Llewyen as self-destructive and often unlikeable, although we cannot help but feel the sad trauma of some of the emotional punches he receives throughout the film. 'World weary' is perhaps the most apt expression, and the film curiously plays around with the idea that the man is talented, but not necessarily truly gifted.

It's a challenge having a protagonist the audience will not 100% sympathise with, but the films achieves the right mix between empathy and a more removed perspective. It is an engrossing portrait of a man seemingly at the end of his tether, but also perhaps someone destined to remain in this cycle of barely getting by: repetition is a key part of the story, mistakes remade and even the way

the story eventually loops back to the beginning

. There are notes of hope, a few scenes of Davis experiencing a rare moment of if not happiness then at least temporary pleasure. But they're fleeting. Uplifting this is not,

fading to black after the protagonist has been beaten by a stranger. And Bob Dylan plays in the background, a reminder that for every superstar there's probably a hundred Llewyen Davises

. Maybe Davis is even satisfied to have it that way.

It looks superb. The trailers I'd seen in the cinema had made it all looked a bit washed out, but it's a vividly realised work, drenched in sombre and moody greys to suit the character, narrative and rather bleak New York winter. It even looks like a film noir at times, whether that's through aggressive shadows, rolling fog or mysterious strangers in alleyways. The interiors are warmer, in some cases a brief respite from the chilly atmosphere. But overall it's an admirably grim and desolate looking film, which suits it perfectly.

There's a plethora of Coenisms. There's a lot of surreal, blackly comic tangents that don't surrender their meaning all that easily (the extended road trip being the obvious example, which actually maybe even plays out at its own pace to a fault). It's nuanced in the way it all plays out, never really going exactly where you expect - subplots and dialogue they tease are going to go one direction

(like Lleywn's instant decision to pass on royalties, or the revelation of his unknown child)

but end on more poetic, subtle notes that have notable effects on the character but aren't explicitly verbalised. And the music is immaculate. I'm not fond of many of the participating artists - that would stretch to 'active dislike' when it comes to Mumford - but the decision to allow most of the musical performances and cues to play out at length (brilliantly edited by the pseudonymous Roderick Jaynes) results in some of the film's most memorable sequences.

I was disappointed with how they chose to utilise Carey Mulligan though - she gives a hugely committed performance, but

her last scene, getting Llewyen that gig

is the only one where she comes across as a more empathetic human being, having mostly been reduced to an overly shrill caricature. Indeed, that scene is one of the most quietly touching in the film - so it's a shame there weren't many other opportunities to establish a more complex character.

It, as ever with the Coens more unusual efforts, will probably take me a rewatch to completely settle. But it's definitely as smart, funny and elegantly crafted as I expected. But most of all it's just so tremendously, magnificently melancholy.

e_e

This is far and away my favorite Coens film since The Big Lebowski. Imagine a wonderful cross between the melancholy of No Country For Old Men, the dark humor of Barton Fink, the lovely songs of O Brother Where Art Though and the existential journey of A Serious Man. Definitely one to watch multiple times as there's so much to process but I have to say I adored it on first viewing. Also it takes some really skilled storytellers to have you constantly shifting between empathy and disdain for the protagonist, mainly because his music does have a quality that nobody else's does in the film and you get that it's that way from his life experiences. Yeah this is such a rich film in detail, insight and also ambiguity. It's almost novelistic in how complete it feels as a story. Even the supporting characters feel more fleshed out and colorful than most other movie protagonists.

The Master

Short and sweet - I thought this was fantastic. The acting and especially the music were superb

IsThisIt???

A typical Coen brothers film in many ways. Those who "get" the coen brothers will love it, while those who don't will be wondering where the hell the plot was. I'm in the former camp as both a fan of theirs and a fan of the music used in the film.

I think the quality of films released for this year's award season is exceptional, but I'm still surprised this film didn't get more recognition Oscar nomination wise.

NapoleonInRags

Agree with most of the views so far - the movie was an interesting character study set during a seminal period in modern musical history. It was an interesting approach by the Coens to portray a largely unsympathetic character experiencing a rough time which at the same time draws huge empathy from the audience.

I was a bit baffled by the John Goodman character & scenes to be honest - seemed a bit 'pasted in' for the sake of it.

Basq

Stupid limited release..

.. looks like I'll have to wait til next weekend to watch it!

losthorizon

e_e wrote: »

This is far and away my favorite Coens film since The Big Lebowski. Imagine a wonderful cross between the melancholy of No Country For Old Men, the dark humor of Barton Fink, the lovely songs of O Brother Where Art Though and the existential journey of A Serious Man. Definitely one to watch multiple times as there's so much to process but I have to say I adored it on first viewing. Also it takes some really skilled storytellers to have you constantly shifting between empathy and disdain for the protagonist, mainly because his music does have a quality that nobody else's does in the film and you get that it's that way from his life experiences. Yeah this is such a rich film in detail, insight and also ambiguity. It's almost novelistic in how complete it feels as a story. Even the supporting characters feel more fleshed out and colorful than most other movie protagonists.

Sounds great as a big fan of Phil Ochs and also of the Byrds I am really looking forward to this. And Of course I love the Coens sense of humour. Although I read that the film is based on the life story of Dave Van Ronk.

In the review I read it mentioned that a group very like the Clancy Bros turned up?

ThirdMan

losthorizon wrote: »

In the review I read it mentioned that a group very like the Clancy Bros turned up?

It's supposed to be the Clancy Brothers. That scene got a great response in the cinema yesterday. Everyone burst out laughing. Affectionately, of course. It felt great because nobody makes fun of the Irish as well as the Irish. It was almost as if that scene was put in there for us. Davis cracks a joke about their 'sweaters'. I'm sure people all over the world will find it funny, but only we will remember having to wear those fcukin things.

A Neurotic

Saw this yesterday evening and it's really stuck with me. As johnny_ultimate said, it's incredibly bleak. Llewyn is a proud arsehole of a man but his struggle really inspires sympathy.

I can't even imagine how horrible he must have felt when he hit the cat. Just to top off a truly depressing road trip

I saw this tonight and I still have this sense of melancholia hanging over me since watching it. It was a brilliant movie, with some incredible singing and musical set pieces. Oscar Isaasc is incredible in the role.

TheMollusc

I thought this was fantastic. The Coen Brothers have made some great films of course: A Serious Man, Fargo, Barton Fink, etc. And while it's too early to tell, this might just be up there as one of their best. But that's another discussion in itself. As far as my personal taste goes, it was pretty much perfect. I already adore this film and can't wait to see it again. That the Coen's films often improve with repeat viewings, only bodes well for Inside Llewyn Davis.

I love Inside Llewyn Davis. An awful lot.

mystic86

I absolutely loved this movie too.

I just replied to say that unlike some of the previous posters, who described Llewyn as "often unlikeable" and "a proud arsehole", I thought he was a perfectly nice fella and everyone else were the "arseholes" i just think he didn't fit in, in a way he was ahead of his time. I mean his song lyrics were thoughtful and deeper with more meaning than most of the other songs in the movie, but it was those 'simple songs' that the people wanted to hear. People's taste slowly started to change, with Dylan and the like helping change tastes significantly, but he was ahead of the curve slightly and suffered for that.

I think.

Wattle

Saw it tonight and really liked it. Llewyn is a bit of an arsehole but you can't help feel a little for him too. Loved the soundtrack too. An extra bonus was having two Fred Neil songs. If you don't know his music I recommend checking him out.

tunguska

mystic86 wrote: »

I absolutely loved this movie too.

I just replied to say that unlike some of the previous posters, who described Llewyn as "often unlikeable" and "a proud arsehole", I thought he was a perfectly nice fella and everyone else were the "arseholes" i just think he didn't fit in, in a way he was ahead of his time. I mean his song lyrics were thoughtful and deeper with more meaning than most of the other songs in the movie, but it was those 'simple songs' that the people wanted to hear. People's taste slowly started to change, with Dylan and the like helping change tastes significantly, but he was ahead of the curve slightly and suffered for that.

I think.

I'd agree with most of that. I'd heard people say that Llewyn was an asshole or this and that but I thought he was grand. I couldnt understand Carey Mulligan's characters tirade against him, I mean she slept with him by choice but yet she blamed him for everything. Seemed a bit spoilt and bitchy, like she didnt take any responsibility at all for actions.
Overall I know I liked this movie but I cant figure it out, just like No country for old man Im kind of left scratching my head. I think its a film that requires a few viewings before you start to really get it.

Zapp Brannigan

Really enjoyed this. Another hit for the Coen brothers. Wasn't til the very end that I copped who the actor playing Llewyn was though!

That_Guy

Saw this tonight. Didn't particularly enjoy it. I like the Coen Brothers but I don't think this is anywhere near their best work.

It looks great and the soundtrack is it's real saving grace but apart from that I felt nothing for it tbh.

The plot is all over the place and characters dropping off like that is a bit annoying. I wish some of the loose ends were tied up somewhat.

Kinda just felt a bit empty to me.

e_e

That_Guy wrote: »

Didn't particularly enjoy it.

Oh don't be That Guy.

That_Guy

e_e wrote: »

Oh don't be That Guy.

Oi!

e_e

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YxcO53WATYw

Think I'll go see it again soon. Can't wait just to see the live performance of this again, the music could have been just a throwaway part of the film but it adds so much weight.

Fago123

Wonderful film. Loved every minute of it. Superb acting, script, direction, photography and (obviously) soundtrack. Saw it on Sunday and it still pops into my head from time to time. Looking forward to seeing it again.

ollie1

Best film I have seen in a long time. I liked it so much I even bought the soundtrack

ThirdMan

That_Guy wrote: »

The plot is all over the place and characters dropping off like that is a bit annoying.

That's what I liked about it actually. My life doesn't have a plot, and people drop in and out all the time, so perhaps that's why.

Harvey Low Fat Milk

Loved this film, Llewyn is a curmudgeon but what a likeable curmudgeon he is. No matter how much of a sh!t he was I really wanted him to succeed even if he seemed like his own worst enemy. The film, soundtrack, cinematography, Isaac and John Goodman would all be in my reckoning for the Boards film awards next year!

The Pheasant2

I went to the irish premiere of this in the IFI and Aiden Gillen was in my row! Really liked the film, great soundtrack - been singing the Auld triangle all week!

Warper

Felt like walking out of this after 45mins but didnt. This is overhyped drivel imo. I was looking forward to seeing this based on the reviews and i do like "indie" films but this is just awful. The main character is one of the most unlikeable in ages. The film just drags along with nothing interesting going on and is filled with extremely bland characters. All the best parts are in the trailer. This was one of the biggest let downs of a film for me in a good while. Avoid.

That_Guy

Warper wrote: »

Felt like walking out of this after 45mins but didnt. This is overhyped drivel imo. I was looking forward to seeing this based on the reviews and i do like "indie" films but this is just awful. The main character is one of the most unlikeable in ages. The film just drags along with nothing interesting going on and is filled with extremely bland characters. All the best parts are in the trailer. This was one of the biggest let downs of a film for me in a good while. Avoid.

Didn't like the film myself but I felt sorry for Llewyn in the end mainly because the other characters just treated him like utter shít. Granted he was guilty of doing the same to others but everyone just seemed to grab an opportunity to knock him down.

e_e

Warper wrote: »

Avoid.

You're entitled to your opinion but c'mon. Why tell people to avoid it when most seem to really like it? I'll never understand things like that.

Ugo Monye spacecraft experience

I loved it, loved Greenberg too so maybe I'm drawn to the unlikeable protagonist

It took me awhile to warm to him but as the movie wore on I become almost entranced in the same daze he was in. Some of the selfish decisions he make shouldn't keep the audience onside but I just couldn't help but root for him

Some things I didn't like: The auld triangle scene, partially because it was such an awful cover of a great song.

Warper

e_e wrote: »

You're entitled to your opinion but c'mon. Why tell people to avoid it when most seem to really like it? I'll never understand things like that.

Fair enough, personally though i wouldn't have minded being told to avoid it. Would have saved me watching it

damone

Total rubbish , what is the point of this film? It went nowhere ! An arrogant selfish half talented folk musician gets on a lot of people's nerve s and runs out of luck ! What was the point ?

Nervous Wreck

damone wrote: »

Total rubbish , what is the point of this film? It went nowhere ! An arrogant selfish half talented folk musician gets on a lot of people's nerve s and runs out of luck ! What was the point ?

By your same logic, what's the point of any film?

damone

Nervous Wreck wrote: »

By your same logic, what's the point of any film?

Entertainment , a twist , a laugh , a wake up call , a different perspective ! One and a half hours of escapism ! This provided none of this for me ! John goodman s character was great and the main actor was excellent but little else !

e_e

That he's arrogant, selfish and half-talented is your opinion of the character damone. Like the best movies it doesn't spoon-feed the message or force you to like anybody on screen, just allowing the character to breathe and following them for 2 hours or so.

I found the film refreshing, honest and melancholic for this reason. I also don't think the "point" is missing or hard to get at all. The film's meaningful repetition and Llewyn's apathy really tell you all you need to know about being a struggling musician in this scene, you get the sense that this is not an unrepresentative week in his life. The central conflict here is that I did find Llewyn talented but had gotten to the point where he was just so worn down by everything (his partner's suicide, the lack of a place to live and friends turning on him). Can you honestly blame his surliness in some scenes?

Nervous Wreck

damone wrote: »

Entertainment , a twist , a laugh , a wake up call , a different perspective ! One and a half hours of escapism ! This provided none of this for me ! John goodman s character was great and the main actor was excellent but little else !

Conversely, it provided all of those things for me (save the escapism, actually). To say that it was a pointless film because you weren't bowled over by the point (or missed it entirely) is redundant.