The Lobster has the distinction of being one of the most bizarre movies I have ever seen. That being the case however I found it to be one of the most original and fascinating movies to have come out in the last few years. I couldn't keep my eyes off it and after the initial reaction of asking myself what I was watching I found it to be rather enjoyable. These kind of movies illicit those kind of reactions but if I have learned anything after years of watching movies sometimes you just have to let go and let the story transport you.
The film takes place in a dystopian future where being in a relationship with somebody is required by law. If you are single you are taken to a hotel where you have forty-five days to find a match or be turned into the animal of your choosing. In other words, it's a world where people like me wouldn't fare very well.
It's at this hotel where we meet David (Colin Farrell) a recently single man whose wife left him for another man. He arrives at the hotel with his dog which was once his brother and is forced to live in a single room and give up all of his personal possessions. He attends classes, dances, and dinners where he has to find his match or else face the consequences.
In addition to these activities the residents of the hotel go on hunting trips to track down and shoot loners (single people who have either run away from the hotel or refused to go) with tranquilizer darts. The more they catch the more days they get to find their significant other.
The casting of these characters is crucial. Particularly David, who is our ticket and guide through this intriguingly odd world. Colin Farrell is perfectly cast here and although he wasn't the first choice for the lead role (Jason Clarke was originally cast) there is no one else I can imagine playing this part. He works so well because he's so believable and gives David much more depth then is apparent at first glance.
Rahcel Weisz is wonderful as always playing the Short Sighted Woman, a person who David meets and feels a connection with after running away from the hotel. The scenes they have together are remarkable not only because of the natural chemistry these characters have with one another but also because both actors are at their best.
And their performances are owed to the brilliant screenplay and direction of Yorgos Lanthimos a Greek filmmaker making his first English language film. He's a very intriguing writer and director because he thinks not just outside the box but very far away from it. Which in the age where most movies are the same thing just repackaged is a relief.
The Lobster is a great film because it's inventive and the type of movie you only get once in a blue moon. It's a dark comedy that is funny and intriguing all at the same time. It's odd in every possible way and makes you wonder what kind of person comes up with this sort of thing but it's a truly ingenious film that requires an open mind. The Lobster is original, funny, and heartbreaking. It's nothing short of art.
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