140 Character Movie Review – #140RVW
JGL completes path to being the ultimate renaissance man by writing & directing this quirky, funny & semi-interesting film (he also stars).
Spoiler-free Movie Review of Don Jon:
Joseph Gordon-Levitt has slowly been conquering the world, but since he’s charming and been doing it quietly, we haven’t noticed or objected. He has safely navigated the transition from child star to actor as well as anyone and better than most. In addition, he’s started his production company (hitRecord), danced at the Oscars, produced a Broadway show and now adds writer/director to his resume.
This last one isn’t always an impressive credit, as any star is generally given the opportunity to helm a vanity project if they hang around long enough and are so motivated. But he has chosen wisely for his first feature length picture, writing a small, not overly ambitious film in which he can really show off his acting chops while showcasing a quick-moving directorial style. The result is a pretty good movie.
It’s an interesting premise; despite being a total player who can bring home “10”s for one night stands seemingly at will, Jon Martello finds nothing in these relationships to compare with his obsession: pornography. Even when he attempts a lengthy courtship with one of his conquests, Barbara Sugarman (Scarlett Johansson), he remains dissatisfied – real life isn’t as fulfilling as porn. Barbara is a controlling woman, trying to mold him into her idea of perfection, and when he takes a night course at her suggestion, he comes across a fellow student, Esther (Julianne Moore) who will cause him to change his outlook on life and love, and maybe even break his porn obsession.
The subject matter itself isn’t the most captivating, unless you find it fascinating as a sociology topic. It’s the execution that is rewarding. Jon is a shallow character, but his routine and obvious pride in his life is quite interesting. The matter-of-fact narration and self-assessment is refreshing, and if he isn’t the most sympathetic character, he’s certainly engaging and understandable. The acting is unsurprisingly good from the main actors, and the character of Esther really gives Moore something worth her time and talents.
While not a total success, Don Jon is a very well-made film that has plenty to chew on. Even at only 90 minutes, it runs a little long, especially the scenes with Jon’s family, led by Tony Danza and a virtually silent Brie Larson. But it’s very funny, led by the endlessly charming JGL with some really good send-ups of romantic comedies. It’s a unique story and deserves to be seen.
Poster:
Trailer:
Bechdel Test:
Fail
The Representation Test Score: D (1 pts)
(http://therepresentationproject.org/grading-hollywood-the-representation-test/)
[schema type=”movie” name=”Don Jon” description=”A New Jersey guy dedicated to his family, friends, and church, develops unrealistic expectations from watching porn and works to find happiness and intimacy with his potential true love.” director=”Joseph Gordon-Levitt” actor_1=”Joseph Gordon-Levitt” actor_2=”Scarlett Johansson” actor_3=”Julianne Moore”]
| Main Cast | Joseph Gordon-Levitt Jon, Scarlett Johansson Barbara, Julianne Moore Esther, Tony Danza Jon Sr. |
| Rating | R |
| Release Date | Fri 27 Sep 2013 UTC |
| Director | Joseph Gordon-Levitt |
| Genres | Comedy, Drama, Romance |
| Plot | A New Jersey guy dedicated to his family, friends, and church, develops unrealistic expectations from watching porn and works to find happiness and intimacy with his potential true love. |
| Poster |  |
| Runtime | 90 |
| Tagline | Everyone loves a happy ending |
| Writers | Joseph Gordon-Levitt (written by) |
| Year | 2013 |