Movie Review: Green Book (2018)
Director: Peter Farrelly
Starring: Viggo Mortensen, Mahershala Ali, Linda Cardellini
Genre: Biography, Comedy, Drama
Runtime: 130 minutes
Rating: PG-13
Plot Summary: Green Book is based on the true story of an unlikely friendship between Tony Vallelonga (Viggo Mortensen), an Italian-American bouncer, and Dr. Don Shirley (Mahershala Ali), a world-class African-American pianist. Set in the 1960s, the film follows their journey through the racially segregated Deep South, using “The Negro Motorist Green Book” to find safe places for Shirley to stay.
Performances: Viggo Mortensen’s portrayal of Tony is a standout, bringing humor and heart to the role. Mahershala Ali’s performance as Don Shirley is both elegant and vulnerable, showcasing his depth as an actor. Their chemistry drives the film, making their evolving relationship believable and touching.
Direction and Cinematography: Peter Farrelly’s direction balances humor and drama, providing a heartfelt and thought-provoking narrative. The cinematography captures the period’s essence, highlighting both the beauty and the racial tensions of the American South during the 1960s.
Themes: The film explores themes of friendship, racism, and personal growth. It delves into the complexities of prejudice and the transformative power of understanding and empathy.
Critique: While Green Book has been praised for its performances and heartwarming story, it has also faced criticism for its simplistic handling of complex racial issues. Some argue that it presents a “white savior” narrative and glosses over deeper societal problems.
Reception: Green Book received positive reviews for its performances and won several awards, including the Academy Award for Best Picture. However, it sparked debates about its portrayal of race relations.
Keywords from Netnaija:
- True story
- Friendship
- Racial segregation
- Deep South
- Pianist
- Road trip
- 1960s
- Transformation
- Empathy
- Humor and drama
Conclusion
Green Book is a compelling film with strong performances from its leads, offering a blend of humor and poignant drama. Despite some criticisms, it stands out for its heartfelt story and the dynamic between Mortensen and Ali. Fans of biographical dramas and films that explore social issues will find it a rewarding watch.