One of the most bizarre and hypnotic movies of the new year is one that many audience members will completely miss. After all, a movie about spring break starring Selena Gomez and Vanessa Hudgens is not something that sounds like stunning cinema. But, to the surprise of many (including myself), here is a beautiful movie, full of danger, violence, sex, and ideas.
From the director of the notoriously banned 'Kids' (1995) comes yet another movie in which the teenagers of a generation are analyzed and probed. The premise is simple enough: four girls commit armed robbery to afford a week-long trip to Florida. After being arrested for drug use, the girls are bailed out by a white thug named Alien (James Franco), and slowly they descend further and further into a world they did not expect to find. A reverse 'Wizard of Oz,' of sorts...
I liked the movie, a lot actually. I admired a film where the stars are those we would not expect to find in such a graphic story. Vanessa Hudgens, especially, should be praised for her work, creating a character that stands out of the group. She is filed with unpredictability, and every moment seems to be a ticking bomb as we wait for her to crack. The same can be said for James Franco. Fresh off his shortcomings in 'Oz,' he manages to create a character that is both memorable and central to the story. With corn rows and grills, Franco is an unlikely choice to play the drug dealing rapper, but he brings to the role a level of quiet sophistication and preparation - and he will surely be remembered as one of the more memorable supporting roles of the year.
The film itself is beautiful, with vivid colors and shots that are pure eye candy for the viewer. With a brooding and absorbing soundtrack layered on top (one composer of 'Drive' fame), we are reminded of a visual style not unlike Sophia Coppola, and Harmony Korine (the director) surely has a remarkable future ahead as he branches more and more towards a potential mainstream audiences.
With the explorations of race, idealism versus reality, sex, and the ever-increasing awareness of violence amongst America's youth, 'Spring Breakers' is a disturbing marvel. Perhaps the film at times aims too high, or perhaps the story's attempt at satire sometimes misses the mark. On the whole, though, this is a movie that will not soon be forgotten.
Spring break… Spring break… Spring break forever…..
(Awards potential: Best Supporting Actress (Hudgens), Best Supporting Actor (Franco), Best Original Screenplay, Best Original Score, Best Cinematography)
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