Woody Allen has had one of the longest and most successful careers in film. Beginning as a stand-up comedian and continuing as an actor, writer and of course a director. His films have crossed generations, genres and time periods. He has even clashed the modern world with that of the past in his greatest feat Midnight In Paris. For his latest work Allen transports audiences back again to the 1920's and stays there with the beautiful Magic In The Moonlight.
The story is very much told through Crawford’s cynical eyes. Therefore you believe, from the beginning that Sophie must be a fraud. You watch in wonder as her gifts cannot be faulted and Crawford and the audience’s eyes feel opened. This absorbing mystic surrounding her is very much an enchantment of the writing and the acting, entwining to become a great and stunning film.
Set in the iconic 1920's, Allen has beautifully recreated the style and tone of the time. Not just in the flapper dresses and three piece suits but the top down cars and scenic detail. The Great Gatsby may have had a larger production budget used to stylise its look but here the story is filmed with a grainy touch that mutes the film somewhat. In no way dulling its colours or detail but adding an old school feel that really transports the audience. This grainy aesthetic is matched by a wonderfully timeless score that plays throughout the film. Whether it is a character playing their grammar phone or added to the scene it aids the films charm.
Emma Stone is a quirky young actress, flipping from comedy to dramas in her short but successful career. Here she plays Sophie, the supposed medium and love interest to Firth's Crawford. Stone does feel a little modern in the film compared to the rest of her cast but still she plays Sophie with charm. Her scenes and dynamic with Firth are great despite the characters, (and actors) age and experience gap.
The film may not reach the iconic heights of Manhattan or Annie Hall but this is still a treat. Magic in the Moonlight is beautifully filmed with a lush score and impressive performances. For those never converted to the Allen side this may be for you.