A rough diamond . . .


but a gem nevertheless. I just saw this movie for the first time in 20 years and was astonished by it. Yesterday, whilst rummaging through a cupboard, I discovered an off-air TV recording I'd made but not watched at the time.

Rambling, wilfully obscure and at times deeply irritating, Cassevettes nevertheless produces the depth of character and authenticity that other directors can only dream about.

It seems doubtful that he would get away with making a movie like this (and certainly one of this length) in this day and age. Could it use some trimming? Could it benefit from some narrative clarity? Yes on both counts Yet all the flaws, quirks and indulgences for which Cassavettes is so well known go to make this this movie oddly endearing and ultimately a compelling viewing experience.

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Most of Cassavetes films were financed by himself or with some of the cast members, so it's likely he would still be making the same sort of movies today if he were alive.

But yeah, studios would not go for something like this which is willfully obscure and challenging. Apparently they didn't go for it 30 years ago either. ;-)

I've seen all his major works except for Minnie and Moskowitz (that's next.) I would actually consider Love Streams the most 'watchable' of his movies. I really liked it (Woman Under the Influence is my favorite I think, though I need to reflect on Love Streams some more.)

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It is a challenging film with some moments of brilliance as well as some very awkward scenes. It doesn't resonate with me as much as other Cassavetes films, but I may upgrade in future viewings. 8/10 stars from me for now.

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It is a challenging film with some moments of brilliance as well as some very awkward scenes. It doesn't resonate with me as much as other Cassavetes films, but I may upgrade in future viewings. 8/10 stars from me for now.

my thoughts exactly

☁☀☁

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