For some Woody Allen is a master film maker. His films have spanned over five decades and are all filled with his signature unconventional characters and quirkiness. He has worked in numerous genres and continually works with the best acting talents in the world. For those who are not fans of Allen’s work there is a distance to his films that cannot be penetrated. Although he writes strong stories with good dialogue, the watch-ability of his films just isn’t there. Despite strong performances and a solid plot, sometimes these elements just don’t come together to create a interesting film. This is sadly the case with Allen’s latest offering Blue Jasmine.
Although not stated directly by Allen, the most obvious inspiration for the film is Tennessee Williams’, A Streetcar Named Desire. Both Blanchett and Alec Baldwin (who plays Jasmines ex-husband Hal) have acted in stage versions of the play.
In terms of genre, this is a drama that explores people dynamics. Its no new territory for Allen who is more likely to make his work character driven as opposed to plot driven. Blue Jasmine follows the same basic plot as Streetcar and Jasmine is the films Blanche DuBois styled heroine. The film is a woman's fall from grace.
As well as underdeveloped characters there are a number of elements the story that don’t flesh out either. The resentment between the sister is never fully explored. Ginger states their mother, who adopted both of them, preferred Jasmine because of her “good genes”. Although the tension is present throughout the film, it clearly goes back further than the sisters financial problems but is left untouched.
Elements of the plot are predictable such as the way in which Gingers affair with a stranger she meets at a party ends. What is seen as a twist in the plot about Hal’s arrest is also predictable. Knowing what will happen before it happens doesn’t make for good viewing and makes the film boring.
If you are a fan of Allen’s work then you’ll follow the general consensus that the film is great. For those who aren’t, this won’t convert you. A re-imagined version of Streetcar that makes you long for the Marlon Brando/Vivian Leigh version. Its a shame because there are so many good elements in the film that fail to come together; creating that interesting story. Potential that is never fully realised or developed on the screen despite such a stellar cast.
2/5