Most people seem to have heard of Woody Allen, but a lot of people haven't seen very many (or any) of his films. Which I think is a real shame. Though Allen's films don't always play in the local cineplex, they're usually smart, witty, and highly entertaining. After putting for a little extra effort to watch his work, Allen has even become one of my favorite directors.
So, today's Monday Movie is... Annie Hall. If you're even remotely familiar with Woody Allen, this may well be the movie you've seen. If you're a fan, this recommendation might seem redundant, or even worthy of eye rolling (it's like telling a science fiction fan to check out Star Wars.)
However, this recommendation is specifically for people who aren't familiar with the director's work, which, sadly, seems to be a lot of people. The film is a romantic comedy, but one with a brain. Allen himself stars, along with Diane Keaton, who together make one of cinema's great on-screen couples.
Like all of Allen's work, Annie Hall is also highly inter-textual, constantly referencing literature, psychology, film history, philosophy, and other things. Yet even if you don't catch the many allusions in the movie, it's still a charming story about the ups and downs of love. It's also a great example of how Allen uses experimental techniques for comic effect.
So if you haven't seen Annie Hall, or if you just haven't seen it lately, get ready for an evening of neuroses, self-analysis, and hypochondria. And
, of course, hilarity.
, of course, hilarity.
I think you should be recommending Crimes and Misdemeanors to anybody who hasn't seen any Woody Allen. Although Allen's personality can sometimes be grating, there's no denying that he's one of the best directors ever. It's sometimes easier to see his genius when he's not an actor in the film, especially if you're turned off by him personally.
ReplyDeleteYou have a really good point and as I re-watched this trailer I though "you know, this may not entice anyone unfamiliar with Allen to watch him." So you're probably right.
ReplyDeleteHowever, I'd also argue that Annie Hall is more widely seen, which means that seeing it would make people immediately a bit more conversant in Allen's filmography. Imagine, for example, being at a dinner party where Allen's films come up. Someone who has only seen Crimes and Misdemeanors might want to jump into the conversation, but witout having seen Annie Hall they'd be lacking familiarity with a basic Allen standard.
In any case, though, hopefully people will watch both!