evelynrae

Cate Blanchett's performance is fantastic, but I couldn't buy into poorly written characters like Chili, played by Bobby Canavelle. He's a good actor. I think that Woody Allen can't hide his contempt for lesser beings. I've grown tired of his ridicule for his fellow human beings. Are we supposed to hate Jasmine for turning a blind eye? Blame her for her husband's suicide and for everyone losing their money in her husband's scams? I can't help but think he's alluding to his former partner's painful position of public humiliation upon her finding out he was sleeping with her daughter. Throughout the movie people keep repeating the accusation that she should have known and therefore was as guilty as her husband. I used to laugh at Allen's writing but then I grew up and realized that ridiculing others is simply cruel and shouldn't be considered entertainment. True, this isn't a comedy but to me it unnecessarily belittles some of the characters.

I enjoyed this screwball family get-together. A fun, entertaining summer movie. I recognized many of the cast members from other projects. It was nice to see them in a predominantly Asian project instead of having small parts that are mostly stereotypes.

I can see where non-native viewers may not understand the narrative. As an Indian I felt it on a cellular-level. After generations of trauma and violence to our people, one cannot escape the effects that are with you everyday. Of course each person is affected to varying degrees. I thought all the actors did a great job. Thanks to everyone who made this film possible. The history, stories and lives of native peoples need to be told. This is just one story. Looking forward to seeing more work from the writer/director.