So prior to the Oscar's I stated that Lost in Translation was my favorite movie from 2003. I was wrong.
It was Big Fish, but I didn't get around to seeing it until yesterday. Perhaps it was the story's similarities to my own grandfather's recent passing and the stories he told (somewhat less fantastic of course, but still doubted by others), or perhaps it was just the creativeness of the story, or the colorful scenery and direction.
The basic plot is a man who grew up hearing fantastic tales form his dad of how his dad had lived. The scenes of fantasy are brilliantly depicted, with sharp colors and colorful characters.
The only downside of the movie to me was the acting of the son (Billy Crudup), who was just above mediocre at best. The father, however, was brilliantly portrayed by Ewan McGregor (as a young man) and Albert Finney as an older man.
Burton's distinctive direction plays well into the fantasy world, but the real star is the screenplay. Perhaps the original material was just that good (I hope to read it soon), but the screenplay provide a rich environment for Burton to play in.
I'd be more coherent, but Im really tired.
5/5 stars, despite Crudup.
Big Fish
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