Midnight in Paris

I just watched Midnight in Paris, and thoroughly enjoyed the film. I have to admit, Owen Wilson is not one of my favorite actors, but he masterfully tapped into that young, neurotic Woody Allen persona. What I enjoyed most about this movie, however, had to do with my ignorance more than anything else.

I would consider myself a casual movie buff. Meaning, I just don't have favorite films, I have favorite directors, writers and even favorite cinematographers. I'm often aware of a movie months before it arrives, and wittingly get caught in the Hollywood whirlwind of hype. With Midnight in Paris, I was completely caught off guard. I only knew it was the new Woody Allen movie starring Owen Wilson and set in France. Although I am a great admirer of Allen's pictures, I wasn't exactly enthralled with the cast, especially after Vicky Cristina Barcelona gave us the great ensemble of Johansson, Cruz, and Bardem.

So, I started this movie out of reluctance, feeling some kind of obligation to watching it more than hoping to enjoy it. I don't mean to spoil anything, but this film takes a very surreal turn 20 minutes in. Midnight in Paris gave me one of the first "What the?" moments I've had in a long time. I was hooked and went along for the ride with Owen, and felt every high and low as he experienced them. It's refreshing to be utterly surprised by a movie, and even more satisfying to know creators are still willing to take a chance. Allen, now in his mid 70s, has taken more chances recently, with movies like Match Point and now Midnight in Paris, than most creators a third his age.

Don't watch any trailers. Don't read any more reviews. Just go with it.

Au revoir.