Synecdoche, New York (2008)
Experimental concept does not a good film make.
Presentation:
If you enjoyed Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind or Being John Malkovich, you may enjoy this similarly experimental film from Charlie Kaufman. Normally behind the scenes as a writer, Kaufman delivers his directorial debut her as the sole writer and director to make his vision come to life. The premise is quite novel of a man creating a play resembling life itself, making the film extremely symbolic. But this stoner film is a bit more serious taking on philosophical challenges of existence, as many French filmmakers often do, and perhaps equally pointless. It’s a lot of verbose wincing and whining but I ultimately felt the execution completely fell apart and didn’t convince me to care. But this may not be the case for many audiences and if it strikes a chord, it could resonate profoundly.
Analysis:
I'm really disappointed more wasn't said. There are many missed opportunities like delving into the performative roles we play in society or the lack of presentness in our daily lives. Unfortunately this film ends up being reduced to the fear or loneliness and death.
Conclusion:
All the world’s a stage. This isn’t necessarily that bad of a film, but I really wasn’t feeling it and found the lack of messaging a waste of time. I enjoyed the concept, but Kaufman doesn’t do anything with it in order to portray the ruthless indifference of life. I suppose if I was at a different point in my life this would speak to me more, and it does capture the simplistic existential threats of the 2000s. But in 2026 we have more relevant looming clouds of technology that make this subtler film feel outdated and possibly irrelevant.
Recommendations
Experimental concept does not a good film make.