The Plot:
Jay Gatbsy is a wealthy man, who is in love with a girl from his past. He tries to build a future with her, however fate turns bad luck into tragedy. Fitzgerald demonstrates many themes throughout the book, including the corruption of the American Dream.
Review:
Whilst being disappointed by the trailer, I was forced to watch The Great Gatsby. I did have a spark of hope, since Leonardo DiCaprio was starring in this 'glamourous' film, however I was still not impressed. Whilst being ambitious, and as glamorous as you might expect- it might seem like the focus was more on the props rather than the actual plot.
First of all the start was a bit of a blur, a haze, a mist. But not in a good way. Whilst being told that it was important, I still do not remember half of it. Unluckily that was a recurring thing. The plot line was not made clear by the directors, it seemed like it was dullness forced into sensation. I found myself daydreaming, and not captured by the plot at all. One part i do remember, was when Nick first met Gatsby. Whilst already being represented as a mysterious man, I was disappointed by the way they met- it was to casual, I expected something more. The fireworks in the background seemed a bit... cliche, to say the least.
However, Leonardo DiCaprio never fails to do the best he can in a role. His acting seems way out of the league for this film. DiCaprio seems to have a better understanding of his role than his director, he senses the depth beneath the character- an already broken man performing.
His love, sweet 'Daisy' was her name. I expected to see something more from her, there was always this clinging sensation that she was going to come out of her shell- but she never did. She was a fragile character, with no real personality. Just a girl thrown between two guys- like she never really had a choice. But maybe along side a strong character like Gatsby, she would've looked good.
Nick.. well it was a similar story for him. Just another clinging sensation that he was going to come out of his shell- but he never did. Looking back, he almost looks like a shadow. At the start he seemed like an important figure, him being the only one invited by Gatsby and all, but his character faded and was only brought back to light when Gatsby died. Nick was overshadowed by Gatsby, but Nick seemed like a loyal companion at the end.
The music was a controversial topic. Whilst I think it fitted with the feeling and the vibe of the scenes, it did not fit in with the theme. With Jay-Z, Beyonce, and Will.I.Am it didn't feel like 1920, more like a present day party with a vintage theme to it.
Overall I did not enjoy this movie. I found it quite boring, and even found myself dozing of a couple of times through the movie. The plot was dullness forced into sensation, so much I do not remember half of it. The actors played their role well, it's just how the characters were portrayed that seemed to baffle me. The music did not go along with the theme at all, and brought me back to the present day.
Rating:
☆☆
