As I Lay Dying

Even though it’s a classic based on William Faulkner, it’s an incredibly hard-to-endure film that not only drags with its slow scenes but also suddenly throws in shots from two different cameras. It creates a peculiar impression that, unfortunately, seems rather contrived to me. The film tries so hard to be artistic that it forgets it’s supposed to be an artist's statement. James Franco wrote the screenplay based on the source material, took on the directing, and also starred in the lead role, hoping that this personal project would resonate with someone. It will likely resonate mainly with him. A unique approach, but unfortunately lacking any impact. That southern accent is really quite something, though. (11/29/2013)