![]() ![]() He checks off the requisite boxes without really emphasizing the drama. ![]() Singer’s direction is at best pedestrian, at worst boring. We might not need Gaspar Noé-levels of hedonistic storytelling, but something along those lines might better express the adventurousness and limit-breaking spirit of that period. The fingerprints of the other band members are all over the film, and while I don’t begrudge their involvement, it results in a chastened look at the debauchery of 1970s rock. He’s always redeemable even when being a schmuck, and the film never delves low enough to grant us the cathartic highs. It’s a journey with the requisite bumps along the road, visiting the loves of his life in all their forms (musical, physical), touching slightly on his obstinance and hubris, but never coming close to showing Mercury the interminable asshole. Cohen also has a hell of a voice, and maybe some division between the original tracks and the on-screen meanderings wouldn’t constantly remind us that Malek’s no Mercury.īohemian Rhapsody is indeed rhapsodic, a full-on celebration of the King of Queen’s rise from luggage schlepper to arena rock superstar. Sacha Baron Cohen seemed like he’d be an inspired muse who could echo the performative aspects of Freddie Mercury, including his suave nature that came with more than a bit of bite. The project wasn’t always going to be so toothless (which is ironic given Mercury’s alleged extra incisors). Add in Rami Malek’s committed performance and you have a satisfying, if not sublime, take on the life of this rock icon. Bryan Singer’s Bohemian Rhapsody seems to know this fact, using the most precious of Freddie’s gifts, his voice, throughout the film. He was too big, too sly, too magnetic and too unique to be imitated. ![]() From the outset, capturing the drama, spirit and sheer charisma of Freddie Mercury on screen in the form of a bio-pic simulacrum was going to be a fool’s errand. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |