TANGERINE has a lot of raw, edgy energy but it is hardly a cohesive whole. I thought of early Almodovar, but, Almodovar at the beginning was more technically, as well as dramatically, more proficient than Baker. And, even at 88 minutes, Baker strains to even fill that amount of time with enough story and plot.
Of course, the 'hip' critics have gone overboard with the acclaim, particularly about it's budget. Once movies like NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD, BLAIR WITCH PROJECT and STRANGER IN PARADISE garnered lots of attention because of their limited means but, they all still seemed more accomplished than this iPhone flick. Despite some cool looking shots and a palpable you-are-there intimacy to certain scenes, there are several others where the severe technical limitations result in awful framing and a cramped feel. Rah! Rah! The critics seem to be saying: Let's celebrate spending $12 to see a youtube video. (of course, most critics get in free)
In the end, TANGERINE joins DOPE and ME AND EARL as yet another indie festival favorite that will have little impact outside that insulated realm, but, you also can't just dismiss it out of hand, either. There is something there, even if never truly transcends it's limits.
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The_Film_Addict
9 years ago
I say: There's no one way to make a movie.
Yes, the fact that this was shot on an iPhone is the pull that used to generate interest, but there's a real story being told here. What looks like a laugh-riot, is actually quite a sad movie about people who are part of a disinfranschised group. It's a very understated film, and it's made for a specific type of audience, which is why I imagine those "hip" critics are praising it so.
The reason this film is in the independent sector is because mainstream audiences just wouldn't be interested in it As it stands, however, I think this film is deserving of every praise it's getting. It's quite a moving film.
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ClartoGlogenwap
8 years ago
You took the words right out of my mouth. I just watched this and hadn't been exposed to any marketing or hype or such.
I am shocked that anyone thought to market it as a comedy. FFS! A person gets out of jail after less than a damned month and hears that their partner has left them for another person? I'm not laughing.
Then I find out it's shot on iphones. I hadn't noticed and still...um...nope. Still don't notice. Also don't care.
I like the damned film for its story and the people whom I would not usually have met otherwise (in film or life.)
And I thank the director, crew and actors for bringing this to me.
Brother, you can believe in stones, as long as you don't throw them at me.
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