Well, having seen very little in the way of previews for this movie, I didn't expect much more than a slapstick silly movie. I must say that I am extremely impressed by the writing talent of Gary Ross.
Being a big fan of old TV shows myself, I enjoyed the magnificent display of Black & White alongside Color on the same screen. Anyone who watches B&W TV programming knows that you don't need color to be able to tell what color Herman Munster's skin is or what color dress June Cleaver is wearing. Ross did a great job of capturing that look, and then showed everything to us again in color, which I personally enjoyed a great deal.
That, however, is not the really surprising part about this movie. After all, Ben Hur had some amazing sets and wonderful costuming, but that's not why it's a great movie - it all comes down to what story is being told. Pleasantville was an incredibly unique take on oppression in its many forms, and as much a political statement as a comedy. I couldn't believe I hadn't seen it coming sooner.
I give Pleasantville an 8. The story was great, the directing was very good, and the cinematography was beautiful. I did see some room for improvement from most of the cast. Other than Jeff Daniels, who performed about as well as he always does - nothing amazing, but no major problems, and Tobey Maguire, who did a great job, I saw a lot of over-acting.
Being a big fan of old TV shows myself, I enjoyed the magnificent display of Black & White alongside Color on the same screen. Anyone who watches B&W TV programming knows that you don't need color to be able to tell what color Herman Munster's skin is or what color dress June Cleaver is wearing. Ross did a great job of capturing that look, and then showed everything to us again in color, which I personally enjoyed a great deal.
That, however, is not the really surprising part about this movie. After all, Ben Hur had some amazing sets and wonderful costuming, but that's not why it's a great movie - it all comes down to what story is being told. Pleasantville was an incredibly unique take on oppression in its many forms, and as much a political statement as a comedy. I couldn't believe I hadn't seen it coming sooner.
I give Pleasantville an 8. The story was great, the directing was very good, and the cinematography was beautiful. I did see some room for improvement from most of the cast. Other than Jeff Daniels, who performed about as well as he always does - nothing amazing, but no major problems, and Tobey Maguire, who did a great job, I saw a lot of over-acting.