Sunday 5 October 2014

FILM: Life After Beth (dir: Jeff Baena, 2014)

"Crazy things happen."

Life After Beth is not quite up there with Shaun Of The Dead or Zombieland, but it comes close.  Writer/director Baena gives the film a lo-fi/indie vibe from the outset which helps to ground the film immensely in the opening stages, aided by an admirably straight and sincere performance from Dane DeHaan as the grieving boyfriend whose girlfriend makes a surprise and initially seemingly-normal reappearance.  The supporting cast is absolutely terrific to watch, especially John C. Reilly and Molly Shannon as Beth's parents.  The standout, however, is Parks and Recreation's Aubrey Plaza, who handles Beth's steady and remarkable transformation as the film progresses with tremendous bravado and conviction.  With little concern for explaining the returning dead and a slightly scattershot approach to narrative, the film instead focuses on the sweet but strong central romance, giving Life After Beth genuine heart and an appealing sense of daftness that is very enjoyable.

No comments: