Can many brilliant moments in a movie compensate for lesser-than moments of significance? I was asking myself that question over and over as EEAaO kept astonishing me with inspired whimsy and outlandish sequences. So, what are the cinematic problems with EEAaO? First, the opening drags and drags. I know there's a goodly amount of setup / intro needed but there's actually too much setup for what's to come and the pace is glacial. This contrasts with many later moments of sublime stillness in the middle of manic action that make perfect sense for overall pacing. Second, there's a Disney-sized dollop of sentimentality and sui generis La Familia a la Chinoise that hits you over the head, particularly later on and it's 100% telegraphed. That said, the movie has jaw-dropping moments of cinematic bluster and choreography. If Michele Yeoh doesn't get an Academy nod for best actress there truly is no justice. So, if you like over-the-top movie moments and can tolerate the underlying family-centric group therapy session thrust upon you, get ready for an amazing ride.
Review of Everything Everywhere All at Once
