The Shipping News (2001)

The Shipping News (2001) was really nice!

I just had some fun translating one of the most negative reviews I’ve read: “While Lasse’s films like Chocolat are full of charm—and I’d almost call Gilbert Grape a masterpiece—this film can only be described with a single word, one that the little girl uses often in the movie: ‘boring’!!! The story is predictable from start to finish, everything in the film seems artificial, and the dialogue is dull, even insipid. As a result, extremely talented actors like Kevin Spacey and Judi Dench, for once, give very poor performances. Furthermore, it’s rather unrealistic for someone believed to be dead to come back to life after x hours. Dude! So if you want to ruin your evening, watch this piece of crap. Have fun!”

Followed by one of the most positive reviews:

“I don’t know what movie the previous commenter saw, but it can’t be this one, because The Shipping News (Schiffsmeldungen in German) is the exact opposite! A great, moving story, actors at the top of their game, magnificent settings, a good dose of humor, and a touch of mysticism. In short: the perfect mix for a fantastic movie. In true Hallström tradition, the film is rather calm and unspectacular, so it’s only for people who can sit in front of the TV for two hours and focus on a movie. But those who can do so are rewarded with a magnificent film.”

Well…
Personally, I didn’t think it was a masterpiece, and I’m a little disappointed about that…
But that doesn’t stop it from being a good movie, full of beautiful images… as well as some of the most shocking ones and some pretty despicable events. The director was determined to shoot this movie in Canada, in Newfoundland. A sort of territory belonging to the Canadians, but which was surely invaded by the Scots.

Rhys Ifans, as likable and charming as ever in his roles.

A movie with Kevin Spacey is usually a sure bet, even if he’s less appreciated in Hollywood these days. But for movies like this, who cares—he’s exceptional.

Julianne Moore is also a sure bet. Whether she’s in bad or good movies, she’s always perfect.

Judi Dench: nothing to complain about! I would’ve even liked to see her a little more.

Pete Postlethwaite: what a huge loss his passing was. He was incredible, and even though he’s grumpy, grouchy, and cranky here, it’s always a pleasure to see him.

Cate Blanchett: utterly detestable in this role… and therefore still just as incredible an actress! Incidentally, this is the second movie she’s made with Judi Dench… but here, they don’t share any scenes. The other one was Notes on a Scandal (2006).

Scott Glenn: Wow! What extraordinary charisma! An actor with so many years of experience… but I really get the impression he was at the top of his game right from the start. He was born for this. Really!

A must-see movie!
Whether you like it or not… you have to see it!!!
Even though critics have complained that at least three aspects of Annie Proulx’s book weren’t faithfully adapted… but personally, knowing what those three aspects are, I would have preferred they hadn’t been expanded upon. And the movie works perfectly for me just the way it is. I wouldn’t have enjoyed it as much if the horrors had been emphasized and highlighted even more. I’m not one of those people!…