Stranger Than Paradise (1984)
Cinema for hipsters.
Presentation:
When you look up cool in the dictionary, you might find Jim Jarmusch up there. His breakout film, Stranger Than Paradise is a quirky movie, perhaps the one that got that ball rolling. Before films like Frank, Lars and the Real Girl, Jarmusch was already mastering the deadpan style. It’s hard to pinpoint exactly why this film is so charming, but I have to guess it is largely in part to do with the Hungarian Eva character. There is something extremely likable about her style and Converse shoes, which makes you want to keep watching the otherwise dull vignettes. His films aren’t for everyone because of their chill pace, but this is one that I did enjoy.
Conclusion:
There are scenes where nothing really happens, and yet you keep watching, waiting for something to happen. Before you know it, you’ve fallen in love with the cast and want more. This is a cult indie film where you love it, or are completely bored. The dry wit hit just right for me and made me want to watch all his other films.
Recommendations
Dead western walking.