Movie Review : Her
Review: Theodore Twombly (Joaquin Phoenix) writes love letters for others through a website called beautifulhandwrittenletters.com. Ironically, his personal life is anything but beautiful. On the verge of getting a divorce, sad and perpetually self-analysing, Theodore shuts himself away in his house to avoid contact with the outside world. The only social activity he indulges in is commuting to work every day and occasionally interacting with neighbour Amy (Amy Adams). Theodore is not cynical though. He just doesn't know what he wants from life, people and relationships anymore.
The writer's life takes an unexpected turn when he begins to find solace in the voice of his new computer operating system Samantha (Scarlett Johansson). Heartfelt conversation with Samantha, fills the void in his life, making him fall in love with 'Her'!
In spite of its futuristic setting, the concept is alarmingly real and there lies its brilliance. Given our addiction to technology, Iphones and Siri already, it won't be long before we do consider having a relationship with our gadgets! Thought-provoking, funny yet melancholic, the tragedy of an urban life is as much a theme of Her as is the satirical take on love in a digital age.
Scarlett Johansson's sensual voice and spontaneity makes up for her physical absence, while Rooney Mara and Amy Adams are effective in their cameos. However, the film belongs to Joaquin Phoenix, who has mastered the art of portraying troubled characters. His eyes speak a thousand words and the moustache lends his hostile character that much required mystique. Heartbreak or no heartbreak, you can identify with his character and inability to express.
Witty dialogues, stimulating cinematography and a soulful background score are major assets of the film as well. Her is riveting, unconventional but not an insane love story. If you are reading this review on your smart phone, you might already be in a relationship with it!
I will watch it :)
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