A brief, deliberately vague review of 'The Nines'
I have always been interested in this philosophical concept, as well as Plato's 'Cave Parable, 'which has been worked into some of my most re-watched cinematic outings of the past few years (The Matrix, Fight Club, Old School -- OK, maybe not that last one).As a writer, I love the kind of Charlie Kauffman-lite vibe this film has going for it, much like 'Stranger Than Fiction,' but I think much more complex. Ryan Reynolds, who I know many are hot-and-cold over, really displays some heretofore untapped range in three separate roles. Hope Davis is always a welcome addition to any film, but --wow -- where did Melissa McCarthy come from? Have not seen an episode of Gilmore Girls, I suppose I am late to the game, but she is amazing in situations that must seem heart-breakingly true to life for her.John August, who previously wrote Go and is a frequent Tim Burton collaborator (Big Fish, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Corpse Bride), makes his debut as director and shows a real flair, working with three distinctly different styles, tones, film stock, etc. I have been purposefully vague about the plot, for I think that should be left for discussion. The best part of the film for me was not really knowing much about it going in. I have since discovered a few helpful theories behind things that I would be willing to share for those who found it as intriguing as I did, but was also hungry to dig deeper into the meaning of it.