“Inside Llewyn Davis” (2013)
Director: Joel and Ethan Coen
Starring: Oscar Isaac, Carey Mulligan, John Goodman
Reviewer Grade: 9ish
Reviewer: Lane Fortenberry
From the moment the microphone shines, we fall in love with folk music. We have sympathy for the starving artist, struggling to make a living doing what they love. Trying to find management and a label is difficult, and is the only true way to start the rest of their lives. “Inside Llewyn Davis” displays dark comedy and unfortunate situations in which Llewyn (Oscar Isaac) finds himself. Featuring brilliant symbolism from the Coen brothers, we’re guided through the life of a starving artist.
Llewyn is a folk singer in Greenwich Village in 1961. He frequently plays at local bars for money and to display his music. Now a solo act, after losing his partner in a tragic event, he struggles to make money and feeds off friends for places to sleep. Llewyn’s friend Jean (Carey Mulligan) shoves some untimely news to him, and he’s forced to sort out the situation. A cat gets loose, and at the same time, Llewyn is guided to find himself and the reality of being a folk artist.
Oscar Isaac is remarkable and so true to his character. He truly delivers the witty dialogue perfectly, and just the way the Coen brothers’ scripts should be delivered. He also is a wonderful singer, for most of the music is played and recorded by him. The scenes of him performing were also shot live, which is impressive in itself. He’s the perfect sarcastic “asshole,” as Jean would say. Carey Mulligan, even though snarky, is quite charming.
“Inside Llewyn Davis” displays beautiful cinematography, a perfect soundtrack, sharp dialogue and a quirky story. It’s the full package for any Coen brothers fan, or fan of indie film.
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