Melinda & Melinda
Directed by Woody Allen.
Melinda & Melinda is the latest Woody Allen film. It starts off in a café where two screenwriters are debating the nature of life. Is it “tragic” or “comic”? One friend then puts forward a hypothetical scenario, involving a girl named Melinda. The two screenwriters then proceed to give their takes on the scenario, and what they foresee unfolding for Melinda. Thus in the style of Sliding Doors we see too parallel “bizzarro” lives of Melinda unfold: One Tragic, One Comic.
I have never seen a Woody Allen film before so didn’t know what to expect, but found this film both brilliant and highly entertaining. The film stars Will Ferrell, Rahda Mitchell, Amanda Peet, and Chloë Sevigny. The performances are excellent all round, but particularly noteworthy are the performances of (Australian actress) Radha Mitchell and Will Ferrell. Rahda Mitchell is superb as the heroine Melinda, playing both the ‘tragic’ and ‘comic’ versions of her character. Will Ferrell is at his best in this film playing what is an untraditional role for him, one demanding both humour and seriousness. From what I am told Will Ferrell’s role is the one that would normally be played by Woody Allen.
This film focuses on what are classic Woody Allen themes of Love and Infidelity. Like other Woody Allen films, it is also takes place in New York. The film’s environment is set around married adult life, and therefore younger audiences may identify with the characters to a lesser extent. However, Will Ferrell’s presence ensures that the film broadens to touch all audiences. Melinda & Melinda is a unique film that is both humorous and entertaining.
8/10
Michael Hill
