Contemplating Robert Zemeckis' latest film, the hosts dive into unexpected themes like dinosaurs and Benjamin Franklin's offspring, questioning its emotional depth. They share personal disappointments in cinematic experiences affected by current events and discuss the challenges of adapting literature to screen. The critique extends to Zemeckis’ evolution as a filmmaker, highlighting a shift in audience expectations and the impact of digital tech on storytelling. A thoughtful analysis reveals missed narrative opportunities, all wrapped in a mix of humor and honest reflection.
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Quick takeaways
Tom Hanks' voice has evolved to reflect his maturity, infusing his recent performances with deeper emotional resonance and complexity.
Wes Anderson's collaboration with Hanks aligns the actor with themes of nostalgia, while reinforcing his status as a cultural icon.
Robert Zemeckis' recent films, including 'Here', reveal a disconnect from audience expectations, questioning his narrative direction and coherence.
The ambitious narrative of 'Here' ultimately feels hollow, as forced dialogue and underdeveloped characters detract from its intended emotional themes.
Deep dives
Tom Hanks' Evolving Voice
Tom Hanks' voice has notably changed over the years, developing a more gravelly tone that reflects his aging and life experiences. As he engages in promotional activities for his films, particularly highlighting his role in 'Toy Story 4', many have observed that his portrayal of Woody conveys a sense of maturity and contemplation, marking a departure from his earlier, youthful performances. This transformation can be interpreted not just as a result of aging, but as an evolution of his craft, allowing him to infuse more nuanced emotions into his characters. Hanks' ability to adapt his voice has become a significant aspect of his recent roles, revealing the depth that comes with his extensive career.
Wes Anderson's Influence on Hanks
Wes Anderson has successfully incorporated Tom Hanks into his unique cinematic universe, showcasing Hanks in an elder statesman role that aligns with his current persona. The director has crafted characters that resonate with the idea of a stable, unflashy representation of America, contributing to the themes of nostalgia and memory that are prevalent in Anderson's films. Hanks' participation in Anderson’s storytelling adds a layer of complexity, as he embodies characters that evoke both humor and pathos. This collaboration is seen as a pivotal moment in Hanks' career, emphasizing his status not just as an actor, but as a cultural icon in contemporary cinema.
Robert Zemeckis' Recent Filmography
Robert Zemeckis has recently transitioned to projects that seem increasingly disconnected from the distinct narrative style that once characterized his earlier works. His collaboration with Tom Hanks on films like 'Cast Away' and 'Forrest Gump' set expectations for engaging storytelling, yet his recent projects, including 'Here', have not resonated with audiences in the same way. This shift raises questions about Zemeckis' understanding of contemporary cinema and audience expectations, particularly as he navigates the complexities of adapting unique narratives. The conversation around his films suggests a growing divergence between his cinematic ventures and the audience's connection to them.
Audience Reception and Expectations
There is a noticeable gap between the expectations audiences have from Zemeckis films and what he has delivered in recent years. Many viewers are eager for Zemeckis to return to the storytelling that made him a renowned director, but his latest works have not captured the same cultural resonance. Films like 'Pinocchio' and 'Marwen' were met with mixed reviews, suggesting a departure from the engaging narratives that once defined his career. The struggle to connect with audiences indicates a need for a reevaluation of choices in narrative structure and thematic exploration.
The Hollow Nature of 'Here'
'Here' appears to present an ambitious narrative but ultimately feels empty, lacking the emotional depth necessary to engage viewers. Critics have pointed out that the film's attempts to convey profound themes through disconnected vignettes dilute its impact, making it difficult for audiences to form a connection with the characters. Several plotlines, including those involving historical context, feel underdeveloped and serve more as distractions than integral parts of the story. This hollowness is exacerbated by the film’s over-reliance on visual effects, which detract from the human experiences it aims to portray.
Character Development and Performance
The character arcs in 'Here' struggle to find meaningful development, as actors like Tom Hanks and Robin Wright grapple with heavily scripted dialogue that often leads to unconvincing performances. Many viewers commented on the lack of emotional nuance, where characters are reduced to their roles as plot devices rather than developed individuals with agency. While Hanks and Wright are talented actors capable of bringing depth to their performances, the material they are given limits their ability to truly shine. This disjointed character presentation weakens the overall effectiveness of the film's message regarding family and memory.
Impact of Themes on Viewers
The themes of family, love, and loss in 'Here' are intended to resonate with audiences, yet the execution falls flat, leaving viewers feeling unfulfilled. Moments meant to evoke nostalgia and emotional reflection become lost amidst convoluted storylines and forced dialogue, detracting from their potential significance. While the film touches upon relatable human experiences, it fails to explore these concepts in a way that feels authentic or deeply engaging. As a result, viewers may find themselves detached from the film's emotional core, struggling to connect with what it attempts to convey.
Prospects for Zemeckis' Future Projects
The future of Robert Zemeckis' filmmaking endeavors remains uncertain, with many hoping he will rediscover the narrative magic that defined his earlier successes. As audiences increasingly seek originality and depth in storytelling, Zemeckis faces the challenge of adapting to changing cinematic landscapes while maintaining his signature style. There is a growing call for him to experiment with fresher themes that resonate with contemporary audiences, potentially leading to a renaissance in his directorial career. For now, however, the reception of 'Here' and similar projects reflects a critical turning point that could influence his future direction.
We apologize in advance if you had a profound emotional experience with the new Robert Zemeckis joint - HERE felt like more of a “Here?? What???? Why?” to us. Dinosaurs, Benjamin Franklin’s cuck son, a man dying from laughter, a horny couple who invent the LA-Z Boy, airplane man (who does NOT die from airplane), and the double whammy of the Black Lives Matter movement and Covid all come together to create a strange boomer diorama that misses much of the quotidian beauty of Richard McGuire’s graphic novel. Will Bobby Z. ever make a good movie again? Griffin’s not feeling bullish on the prospects.
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