The Place Beyond The Pines (2013)

 

I haven't started to think about a potential list of great movies I've seen in 2013, but without having to delve deep into that subject, I know for a fact The Place Beyond The Pines will certainly feature in my top 10.

All elements known to public made this film appealing... From the director who brought us Blue Valentine in 2010 (a favourite of mine) alongside with a terrific cast lead by two A-Listers who seem to become more mature as times goes by.

Ryan Gosling (in his second collaboration with Cianfrance) and the recently Oscar nominated Bradley Cooper, take the lead in this soon to be cult classic, with an unusual narrative and surprising/fresh storyline. Hints of classic/traditional cinema are all over the place... scene transitions and dissolves, shifts of themes and even a certain acting style that gives a vintage feel to it. It's great film making and Cianfrance has made a huge statement with his sophomore movie, which by the way, he also wrote alongside with Ben Coccio and Darius Marder.

Other things worth mentioning are the cinematography, two surprising performances from young actors Dane DeHaan and Emory Cohen and a fantastic soundtrack as well. It is captivating, intense and mesmerizing, blending perfectly with what's happening on screen... Especially a track called Snow Angel - in my opinion the best in the entire album. Kudos to Mike Patton, Faith No More's front-man who composed most of the tracks!

I urge you to go and watch it at the cinema. Completely worth it!!