A new movie by master director Wong Kar Wai is always cause for celebration, so his first English language film, "My Blueberry Nights", went to the top of my list as must-see viewing. A stellar cast (Jude Law, Natalie Portman, David Strathairn and singer/novice actress Norah Jones), exquisite cinematography and that fabulous Wong Kar Wai style make for a delicious treat for the viewer. Jones stars as Elizabeth, who's left broken hearted by a boyfriend's desertion but can't seem to let go and winds up hanging out each night at a small cafe in Manhattan run by Jeremy (played by Law). She's left her keys in Law's possession so that he might return them to her errant boyfriend if he ever comes back in for a meal. Checking frequently to see if he's shown up (he hasn't), Elizabeth winds up staying for the blueberry pie and conversations with Jeremy. When she suddenly takes off and hits the road on a journey of self discovery, the two keep in touch via postcards as Elizabeth takes jobs as waitress, bartender and casino cocktail server from Memphis to Vegas. Along the way she meets a variety of characters, including an alcoholic policeman (a heart breaking performance by the always amazing David Strathairn) and his wayward wife (Rachel Weisz) as well as a tough, high rolling gambler (Natalie Portman).
It's difficult to describe the intoxicating spell that is cast by a Wong Kar Wai film. He has captured the motion, night colors and isolation of city life with breathtaking effect in such extraordinary movies as "Chung King Express" and "Fallen Angels" and now adds a new talent to his repertoire: Americana. I've always loved his slightly misshapen, uncommunicative characters, but here he's also mastered the flavor of a seedy Memphis bar along with a sweet, long distance romance. Cinematographer extraordinaire, Darius Khondji, is a perfect compliment to the writer/director's style, making everything from the overhead railway to the desert vistas shine with vibrance. Even the smaller, supporting roles are perfectly cast (including Frankie Faison as Travis the Memphis bartender and Katya Blumenberg as Jeremy's ex-girlfriend). Jones does an impressive job in her first acting assignment, plus singing a terrific song ("The Story") over the movie's credits. Many critics have been less than impressed by this movie. Yes, it's rhythms are slightly off, its characters not quite comprehensible, its arty visuals a little precious. Call me crazy, but I love this movie for those very reasons and so many more.
Things to love about this movie: Writer/director Wong Kar Wai, a great cast, wonderful cinematography, mood and style to burn
Things to hate about this movie: (This line left blank on purpose.)
Pleasant surprises: Norah Jones' performance isn't too shabby for a first timer; Wong Kar Wai manages to make an "American" movie without sacrificing his own style; real live female characters who even like to eat (what a concept); a romantic, upside down kiss that puts "Spiderman" to shame
Unpleasant surprises: I'm amazed that more critics haven't liked this movie (is it just me?)
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