The Lobster (Film Review)
The Lobster is a 2015 comedy-drama directed by Yorgos Lanthimos (Dogtooth), and starring Colin Farell and Rachel Weisz.The film's concept: all adults who have recently lost a partner through death or divorce are sent to a hotel, where if they do not fall in love within 45 days, they are surgically transformed into an animal of their choosing. ''A lobster's an excellent choice''.
I try not to explain the film's plot when somebody asks. Maybe this ridiculous concept is in reference to how ridiculous forcing someone to fall in love due to common interests is, or even just forcing someone to eventually get married. A comment on the societal pressures put on single adults. There are constant references and reminders to how even numbers are perfect, a couple. There is a further commentary on applying limiting labels and boxes to people, no half-sized shoes, etc.
Collin Farrell and Rachel Weisz, along with the many minor characters, all add to the film greatly. There are no weak actors which I could point out. The screen writing can be fast and witty at times, but I felt the ''quirkiness'' was definitely overdone. The robotic and monotonous speech pattern was generally funny but also overdone.
I have spoken to many people who do not enjoy this film, and I can definitely respect and understand their opinion. The Lobster is not for everyone, with it's strange plot, writing and imagery. It's script is similar to that of a Wes Anderson film, but still remains very dark, and at times disturbing. It is definitely a slow film which is heavily reliant on dialogue (which many people won't even find funny). A very strange film.
I give The Lobster 7.5/10
Rated 15, runtime 120 minutes
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