Woody Allen’s comedy drama Blue Jasmine is a treasure trove of great writing, direction and performances.
Former New York socialite Jasmine is used to a lavish lifestyle. Following the loss of her fortune, Jasmine arrives in San Francisco to stay with her modest sister Ginger. Despite looking the part of a well-adjusted lady, Jasmine is anything but…
Blue Jasmine is more serious than a lot of Woody Allen’s previous films. Nevertheless, the humour is still present in this latest effort, and it is still effective.
The neurotic character is a common component of Allen’s films. In Blue Jasmine, this attribute is taken to the extreme. Jasmine is a fantastic and compelling central character. Viewers are unable to look away, even when watching is painful.
Other characters in Blue Jasmine are just as well-crafted. Ginger and Chili appear three dimensional. The various relationship dynamics at play are engineered for humour and drama. The ilm is successful in both these respects.
The themes that transpire in Blue Jasmine age old, yet this rendition feels most contemporary. At times, situations or characters can feel almost caricature; yet the absurdity is a plus as it adds to the humour of the film.
Woody Allen has a knack for drawing fascinating characters. Blue Jasmine is no exception. None of the film’s main characters are redeemable overall, but this does not make them less gripping. Allen’s dialogue is on point, as ever.
Cate Blanchett offers a maginificent performance as the protagonist. She is so convincing as Jasmine that her performance almost feels too heady in its resplendence. Sally Hawkins and Bobby Cannavale are great, as is Michael Stuhlbarg in a minor role.
With Blue Jasmine, Woody Allen has made a great return to form following the lacklustre To Rome With Love. It will be interesting to see what the prolific director does next.
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