We're all hepcats

Ok, I really shouldn't be spending time blogging right now but I made the mistake of reading over the posts during lunch and can't keep myself out of it.  So, here are some thoughts on Lost in Translation based on the discussion John and Brandon have been having today.

I don't get the "too cool for Japanese" reference, Brandon.  I don't think the characters necessarily feel that way.  Rather, they are confused and don't really know how to make sense of Japan and the people they meet.  Of course, it doesn't help that they are surrounded by a certain segment of the population.  It is more an alienation in their own lives and I think they would come off this way no matter where in the world there were placed.  Being in Japan just heightens this.

I actually liked Anna Farris' character.  Sure, she was a bit over-the-top but, again, it is more just a way to heighten the alienation.  We all know people like this character, especially if you are interested in the arts (or majored in philosophy like I did).

I think that Charlotte does know that she is responsible for her own alienation and imprisonment but she doesn't know what to do with it or how to get out of it.  She tries some self-help CDs, but that's not really going to offer an answer.  She grew up materially well-off.  I think that it is the case that this can cause a certain sadness in people who have never been challenged and are trying to understand how best to live. This is why she lacks empowerment.  I don't see this as a negative of her character.  She is trying.

Bob's wife doesn't come across as a bitch.  She is frustrated.  Her marriage hasn't been a real marriage in years, she has kids to take care of and a husband who is gone a lot.

The adultery thing is more difficult.  I think that I generally have a very different idea about relationships and marriage than you two probably do.  In fact, I've noticed that my approach to these issues is different than most other people.

Anyway, I think that Bob still loves and respects his wife but they probably haven't really had a marriage in years.  Who is to say if one of them holds more fault (probably Bob) though?

I think the scene where Bob holds Charlotte's foot is one of the most important in the film.  Beautiful and it says so much.  Emotional adultery?  Hmmm...I get what you mean by that and it's probably more damaging than just a sexual thing, but....(thoughts on this to be finished later).

That's all for now.  Sorry it lacks substance and coherence.  I'll try to write some more later.  This film deserves a much better defense.

And, yes, I'm probably biased because me and Murray are tight.  He makes a fine tequila.



Also, I'm not a huge fan of Juno.  It was alright but once was almost more than enough.  I really liked Ellen Page in The Tracey Fragments and Hard Candy.  Those are two films you should all check out.  I guess I just like her in non-comedic roles.