Woody Allen’s most recent film clips along at a brisk pace, leaving some viewers in the dust.
Starring Colin Firth (Stanley) and Emma Stone (Sophie), ‘Magic in the Moonlight’ has many humorous moments, beautiful cinematography and a fitting soundtrack, as one would expect from director/writer Woody Allen (Annie Hall, Manhattan, Blue Jasmine).
Set in 1928, ‘Magic in the Moonlight’ follows world-renowned magician Stanley as he attempts to debunk the telepathic talents of a young American from Kalamazoo Michigan, Sophie at the request of fellow childhood friend and magician Howard Burkan (Simon McBurney).
A majority of the film takes place on the French coast where Allen uses his cinematic talents when capturing the majestic landscape and lengthy panning shots of Firth driving on the winding roads.
The script, although witty and well structured cinematically, progresses at a rapid pace, which leaves the audience feeling like they might have missed something. Firth’s character is short changed with a rapid, unexplained shift in personality and appreciation of Sophie.
Allen is known for his quick-witted dialogue and plot sequences. Unfortunately he went overboard with the scatter-brained quirky wit when executing this particular project.
Magic in the Moonlight is currently showing a The State Theater in Ann Arbor.
