Review: Palindromes (2004)

Todd Solondz is a filmmaker who has never shied away from exploring the more uncomfortable aspects of human nature, and his 2004 film, Palindromes, is no exception. Known for his distinctive style and audacious themes, Solondz continues to push boundaries with this film that challenges both narrative structure and viewer expectations. If you're a collector who appreciates films that test the conventional storytelling norms, then Palindromes might already be on your radar.

Plot Summary

In Palindromes, we follow the journey of a young girl named Aviva who desperately wants to become a mother. Her quest leads her into a world filled with various eccentric characters and situations, each reflecting different aspects of society's moral compass. What's truly unique about Palindromes is its approach to the protagonist herself. Aviva is portrayed by eight different actors of varying ages, races, and genders throughout the film. This casting decision not only adds layers to the character but also emphasizes the film's themes of identity and perception.

The plot is structured in a way that mirrors its title: a palindrome is a word, phrase, or sequence that reads the same backward as forward. This circular narrative approach allows the film to explore its themes from multiple angles, leaving viewers with more questions than answers. Without giving too much away, it's safe to say that the journey Aviva embarks on is anything but straightforward.

Performances

The decision to cast multiple actors as Aviva could have easily backfired, but it ends up being one of the film's most strong features. Each actor brings a unique interpretation to the character, highlighting different facets of Aviva's personality and circumstances. The transition between actors is seamless within the context of the film's world, and it invites the audience to ponder how identity can be fluid and multifaceted.

The supporting cast is filled with memorable performances, each actor embracing the eccentricity of Solondz's world. Ellen Barkin, as Aviva's mother, delivers a performance that balances pathos with dark comedy. Meanwhile, Richard Masur and Debra Monk provide a grounded yet unsettling portrayal of a couple deeply entrenched in their own convictions.

Direction and Craft

Solondz's direction in Palindromes is both daring and deliberate. He uses the film's structure to challenge viewers, encouraging them to reflect on the nature of identity and morality. The choice of using multiple actors for a single character may initially seem jarring, but it quickly becomes a tool for deeper engagement with the film's themes.

Visually, the film maintains a stark and somewhat sterile look, which complements its narrative style. Solondz opts for a straightforward approach that focuses on the characters and their interactions, allowing the audience to immerse themselves in the story without being distracted by overly stylized visuals. The film's score, composed by Nathan Larson, adds an additional layer, subtly enhancing the emotional beats without overshadowing them.

Collector's Verdict

For collectors, Palindromes represents a unique piece of filmmaking that stands out due to its unconventional narrative and thematic depth. The best format for owning this film is the DVD, which includes commentary and behind-the-scenes insights that are invaluable for understanding Solondz’s vision. While the film isn't extremely rare, it's uncommon enough to be a notable addition to any collection focusing on indie or avant-garde cinema. Its thought-provoking approach will likely spur interesting discussions among fellow film enthusiasts.

In conclusion, Palindromes is a film that challenges traditional storytelling and presents a mosaic of performances that are as diverse as they are intriguing. It's a film that asks more questions than it answers, making it a fascinating watch for those who appreciate films that don't conform to conventional norms. With its unique narrative structure and thematic exploration, Palindromes is a worthy addition to a collector's shelf.

Star Rating: 3.5 out of 5