Review: Trance

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Do you want to remember?
Simon (James McAvoy) is an art auctioneer who agrees to be in a theft of a very expensive painting. You see, Simon has a bit of a gambling problem, and Frank (Vincent Cassel) has agreed to get him out of debt if he helps him and his crew pull this off. Well, he doesn't. The painting is missing, and Simon took a blow to the head and cannot remember what happened. They enlist the help of Elizabeth (Rosario Dawson)a hypnotherapist to try to help him remember.
 
Danny Boyle's signature style is all over this film. The wonderful music, the bright splashes of color, the way he frames certain shots. It's something I've grown to love about his work. The film has plenty of twists and turns, at times it's a little hard to follow, but it keeps you guessing.

Let's talk about the acting. This role is a departure from the ones I'm used to seeing McAvoy play. It was very welcoming. Cassel is wonderful and sinister as always,(and even does a fabulous Gus Fring impression at one point) and Dawson gives a very bold performance. I was actually kind of surprised with Dawson. She's a good actress, but I didn't expect her to do some of the things this role required.

This isn't my favorite Danny Boyle movie, but it does rank high on my list. A must see for any fan of the director and the leads.

Recommended: Yes

Grade: B

Memorable Quote: "Strawberry" - Simon (James McAvoy)


Comments

  1. Dan O.May 8, 2013 at 9:36 AM

    Nice review Brittani. The cast is good, but the characters they played weren’t ones I really cared much for at all. The story is what kept me glued, and always entertained.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Brittani BurnhamMay 9, 2013 at 9:15 PM

      I was definitely surprised with where it went. Especially for Simon. Wasn't expecting him to be such a bad person.

      Delete
  2. s.May 8, 2013 at 10:29 AM

    I really want to see this one. This looks like Boyle's return to darker material which is great.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Brittani BurnhamMay 9, 2013 at 9:16 PM

      It's definitely dark and kind of gory at times. It reminded me a lot of Trainspotting.

      Delete
  3. AnonymousMay 8, 2013 at 1:43 PM

    I am looking forward to this movie. I'm glad you liked it.

    ReplyDelete
  4. m.brownMay 9, 2013 at 8:44 AM

    Thanks for the reminder on this one. I MUST SEE THIS. Boyle has been a favorite ever since Shallow Grave. The cast sounds very cool, and uh...I've got a thing for Dawson.

    I know. Shocking, huh?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Brittani BurnhamMay 9, 2013 at 9:14 PM

      If you have a thing for Rosario Dawson, then this is right up your alley.

      Delete
  5. JoshMay 12, 2013 at 6:24 PM

    Glad you liked it. The style and the performances were wonderful.

    ReplyDelete

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