Starring: Michael Fassbender, Domhnall Gleeson, Maggie Gyllenhaal.
Frank, is the story of a try-to musician who joins an eccentric pop band led by a man in a paper mache mask.
Whilst the concept for the film is unique and interesting, the script and the storyline didn't live up to the expectations. It seemed as if the film was trying too hard to be something different and whilst this did work in certain aspects, it was all a bit too much. A lot of good subject matters, such as mental illness, were somewhat ruined by gimmicks.
The characters personalities were all both similar and different. They each brought something new to the screen but they all seemed alike which made their group dynamic much more believable. Their eccentricity was enjoyable to watch but had they toned it down a bit, they could have gotten the films plot across more.
The plot itself was fun and quirky and it was trying to get at something deeper but I was never quite sure what that was. The main theme seemed to be about mental illness in creatives, which is a very real topic, rarely shown in film. It portrayed this in a authentic way too, such as the scenes where Frank (Michael Fassbender) won't finish the project until everything is perfect.
Cinematography in this film was definitely a positive. The indie script was brought to life by the indie visuals created by cinematographer James Mather. Backdrops from the Irish countryside made picturesque scenes with wonderful colours. And most of all, Franks paper mache head was a great on screen element and filled the shots wonderfully.
Overall, I have very mixed feelings about Frank. On one hand it's shot and acted out superbly, on the other it's unclear and complicated. Part of me thinks that it's a great idea how the film is as messy as the characters but it just didn't make for a completely entertaining movie. I would however, highly recommend you go watch and make your own judgment as there is something special to be seen here.
