Todd Solondz’s loose, recast sequel to “Happiness” was, for me, one of the pleasant surprises of last autumn’s festival circuit — more focused and astringently funny than his last two features, it’s also about as humane a work as the now middle-aged enfant terrible is capable of conceiving. Fans of all actors in the formidable ensemble will be duly rewarded: Ciaran Hinds is my pick, but Allison Janney turns in the sharpest performance of her career.
This British trailer gives a reasonable idea of what to expect: the film is too mannered and sour to win many new converts, but Solondz acolytes should get in line. The UK release is next month; IFC is making Americans wait until the summer. My review from last year’s Venice fest here. Great poster after the cut.
Comments
14 responses to “‘Life During Wartime’ trailer and poster”
gah! can’t wait for this movie, although I’m guessing my only way to see it will be through a film festival here (or the eventual DVD release overseas).
I liked this film quite a lot when I saw it at TIFF last fall — great performances, strong writing, dark subject matter, but it works beautifully together — not a date movie, and clearly not for everyone, but a powerful film.
I completely forgot about this movie! I can’t wait till it comes out now. Since it was only in festivals last year and didn’t get a domestic release until this year does that mean that it will technically be considered a 2010 film in terms of awards contention (not that it will necessarily get any nominatioins…)
I saw this at the NYFF and thought it was basically horrible. I have not seen anything else from Solondz. I may give Happiness a look.
Michael: Yes, it counts as a 2010 release. And no, the Academy won’t touch it with a ten-foot pole.
Well the prequel was one of the worst movies I’ve seen in my life. So I’ll give it a pass.
Like I said, no new converts.
But if you haven’t seen many movies in your life worse than “Happiness,” I’d say you’re a very lucky man.
I have not seen many movies worse than “Happiness” in my life. None come to mind. Ugh… what a miserable experience that was to sit through.
[…] to Guy Lodge for bringing this new UK trailer to our attention; likewise the poster after the […]
Well THE LAST SONG just dropped and I’m sure it’s much more your speed. Only moderate heartache and even that soothed with the power of song.
Good one.
Oh how I love Palindromes and am haunted to this day by Sharon Wilkins’ Aviva. If Howard Stern were a sophisticate (eehh, who am I kidding) he would realize that Precious was/is not the beginning/end of great roles for non-skinny/non-white actresses.
[…] 'Life During Wartime' trailer and poster […]
[…] 'Life During Wartime' trailer and poster […]