Road to Oscars: Belfast
Added 2022-03-25 13:33:31 +0000 UTCIf I could describe this movie in one word (and strangely it’s the word I would use to describe many of the best picture nominees this year), it would be “tender”. What Branagh executes very well is painting a portrait of childhood nostalgia. I think the black and white actually serves a purpose here, unlike many other films that fall into the trend, because it creates a certain feeling of distance between the viewer and the action - like they’re glimpsing a memory. However, I found the film to be a bit too precious at times. None of the characters have any discernible flaws, besides the Loyalists. I would have liked to get a bit more perspective or nuance from them - because the film cuts its heroes and villains a bit too starkly, giving us no motivation for the other side other than petty “rabble rousing”. When it comes to the central family, Branagh treats them with a warmth that will put a smile on your face. I appreciated how the parents and grandparents treat the sons like equals - rarely keeping them ignorant to what is going on. Although I thought there was a bit too much reliance on having Buddy eavesdrop on his parents for exposition-sake (there’s upwards of 6 scenes where he does this). I also would have liked the brother character to be more explored - he is so imperative to the plot and to our characters yet we barely hear him speak. You can tell this was a very personal film for Branagh, and he fills it with so much heart. It's a love letter to the first place we call home, a very very earnest Jojo Rabbit.
