Monday, February 8, 2010

226. Changeling

Changeling (2008)

Director: Clint Eastwood

Starring: Angelina Jolie
John Malkovich
Jeffery Donavon

IMDB Rating: 8
My Rating: 8

"I used to tell Walter, "Never start a fight, but always finish it." I didn't start this fight, but by God am I going to finish it."





Christine Collins' (Angelina Jolie) is a supervisor at her local telephone company. After returning from work one evening, she finds that her son Walter is missing. She reports the incident to the Los Angeles Police Department, who at the time were seen as nothing more than a corrupt mafia. Her story soon becomes an interest to Pastor Gustav Briegleb (John Malkovich), a outspoken preacher and enemy of the LAPD. After a few weeks, the authorities inform Collins that they have found her son. Although, once she sees the boy, she instantly realizes that he is not her son. Police Captain J.J. Jones (Jeffery Donavon) assures her that it is indeed Walter, and tells her to take him home for a trial basis. With the help of Pastor Briegleb, Collins begins a fight for justice and truth that tests her freedom and sanity as a mother and a woman.

Changeling proves to be an extremely heavy film for viewers, including those with children. Be aware that there are some pretty intense scenes of torture involving children, that might be difficult for some to see. That being said, this true story is presented in a very authentic and respectful way. There are no scenes that appear to be gratuitous and just unneeded. It is very difficult to take a subject matter like this, and make it watchable for an average audience. This film succeeds in not shocking, rather educating you on the realities of the situation and time.

Mature subject matter aside, the cinematography is absolutely breath-taking. Director Clint Eastwood has given us a visually pleasing picture of 1920's Los Angeles. The colors blend together seamlessly, never appearing plain or dull. I found myself enamored with the stunning wardrobe and locations just as much as the story and message of the film. It's not a simple task, taking a film with such a heavy subject matter, and making it a pleasing film to watch. Changeling is an extremely beautiful looking film, filled with gorgeous colors and unforgettable imagery.

The performances from everyone in the film are very satisfactory. Angelina Jolie's dominating performance is simply one of her best to date. You can see the passion and hurt in her Christine Collins. It's obvious that her responsibilities as a mother, greatly weighed in on her solid performance. John Malkovich gives us another fantastic performance, which is nothing out of the ordinary for those familiar with his work. Worth mentioning is also child actor Eddie Alderson, who turns in a performance well past his age. The ensemble brought together for this film, is surely a highlight of the film.

Clint Eastwood has once again shown how his talents are not limited to just in front of the camera. Changeling might not be his best directed film, although it is an achievement all on it's own. Angelia Jolie and the rest of the cast give one of the better ensemble performances of 2008. I am not sure how much this film would hold for a second viewing, but it is recommended seeing at least once. If you liked Mystic River or Gone Baby Gone, you would enjoy this film.

2 comments:

  1. Horrible review on your part. I have never heard of this film, and after reading your review, I still have no idea what this film is about, other than a woman taking home a boy who is not her son. WTF? Why? How? What is the general plot? Hell, what GENRE is it? Suspense? Horror? Sci-Fi?

    Bad, bad review, and totally useless, sorry.

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  2. thanks for the constructive critism. in my reviews i never want to give away too much of the plot. i've had complaints similar to yours, but that I give too much away. I am trying to find a happy medium. thanks so much for the feedback.

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