Saturday 7 December 2013

Scott Gentry reviews "Nebraska" a fantastic triumph from the director of "Sideways", Alexander Payne.


"Nebraska" (15)
Director: Alexander Payne.
Starring: Bruce Dern and Will Forte.
Rated: 15, for containing infrequent strong language and moderate sex references.
Running time: 115 minutes.
Out now in UK cinemas.

After winning a million dollars in a sweepstakes, alcoholic Woody Grant (Dern), decides to collect the winnings from the company's office in Nebraska. Upon hearing this, Woody's family confront him as they feel that he's making a huge mistake and refuse to take him. After much consideration, his estranged son (Forte) decides to accompany Woody on this perplexing road-trip, in a last-minute bid; to reconnect with his father. 

When it comes to writing complex comedies, Alexander Payne is definitely your man. Reaching Hollywood fame with his 2004 hit "Sideways", Payne has established himself as an ambitious director, who is always masterful in the art of film-making. 



Hollywood comedy/dramas have definitely been given a run for their money here and should quake in fear at this hilarious piece; as comedies just aren't made like this anymore. The film is crafted beautifully, from some excellent camera shots, right down to the script. Although it's surprisingly not written by Payne, Bob Nelson (a relatively new writer, except for a TV series) has adapted Payne's style and made it his own. 


Bruce Dern (an acting legend from the 70's) delivers a stellar performance (he won best actor at the Cannes Film Festival for this role), who acts in a way what can only be described as the best role of his career. Will Forte is well cast into his role and fits in successfully, with the 'lost son' stereotype. Stacy Keach plays his character Ed Pegram brilliantly and frequently performs the roles of villain's, so generally speaking, this role was a walk in the park. In addition, June Squibb and Bob Odenkirk act admirably in their supporting roles, leaving each scene with hilarious witticism.

The soundtrack fits in perfectly well with the film, to deliver some almost melancholic pieces, to accompany some heartfelt scenes. 


Verdict 

A clear contender for the 2014 Oscars and Academy Awards; "Nebraska" breathes fresh air into the comedy genre ever so well.

8 stars out of 10.

Written by Scott Gentry



Film Rating Key
1-2 stars out of ten = Awful.
3-4 stars out of ten = Average.
5-6 stars out of ten = Good.
7-8 stars out of ten = Excellent.
9-10 stars out of ten = Amazing.





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