MOVIE MONDAYS: BOYHOOD
Ever watched a movie that left you in awe for several hours after you finished it? Boyhood is that kind of movie for me. I remember when I first caught a glimpse of its trailer at the cinema and found out that it was shot over 12 years so that the audience gets to see how the characters aged naturally. That was what piqued my interest. 12 years? To shoot one film? I had never heard of such a project but quickly made a mental note to see it as soon as it came out. And see it I did.
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Do you remember how epic School of Rock was? I do. And when I discovered that the director who worked on that was the one who directed Boyhood, my anticipation for this film grew even more. As soon as my work day ended last Wednesday I bolted out of my seat with valuables in hand and rushed off to catch the 5.20 pm showing at the cinema. I had a feeling the film might be a long one and as you all know, I love my early nights... especially on a weekday. Boyhood is a uniquely told coming of age story laced with realism, heart and humour. Centred around a boy called Mason, his family and the struggles they all go through in this dance called life, this film will have you smiling, tapping your feet to its amazing soundtrack, cringing at a handful of awkward moments and wishing that it never ends as you watch Mason grow up. Boyhood was written and directed by Richard Linklater (Before Midnight; A Scanner Darkly; School of Rock) in such a novel way that I have no doubt it will be loved by many and talked about for years to come. The transition between each stage of Mason's life was quite seamless and heralded by real seemingly popular events that took place during those years. And it was also cool how most, if not all, the songs used in the film seemed to only play when there was an actual source of music in that scene which made them all the more real. Each facet of the film appeared to be very thought out.
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Seeing how the characters evolve, physically and emotionally, throughout the film was exciting to say the least. The actresses and actors in this film gave such great performances both individually and collectively, it is no wonder they were cast. The role of Mason, a sensitive, opinionated and quite entertaining person was taken on by Ellar Coltrane (Fast Food Nation; Loner State of Mind). Mason's resourceful, caring and talented mother who has questionable tastes in men was played by Patricia Arquette (Boardwalk Empire; Medium; Fast Food Nation). Ethan Hawke (Before Midnight; Fast Food Nation; Assault on Precinct 13), who is no stranger to a Richard Linklater project, starred as Mason's eccentric father who always has a few wise words to share. And Samantha, Mason's mischievous, protective and intelligent sister was played by Lorelei Linklater (Boyhood). Although the focus is on Mason, we are shown how these other 3 characters, along with a whole host of others, help shape him into the young man he grew up to be. Also, I just have to give a quick shout out to the hoola-hoop girl. For those who have seen this film, you know who I am referring to. She has some serious skills!!
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The reviews for this film speak for themselves. Boyhood is a film that is a collection of moments that will seize your attention and leave you knowing that you are not alone in trying to figure out how to make the most out of your life. We continue to learn new things as we grow. If you are thinking of swinging by the cinema and decide to watch this I do not think you will regret it. It is, to me, a great work of art that will find a home in my DVD collection soon.
What are your thoughts on Boyhood?
Mo x