Playwriting student, Liam Patrick, take a look at what’s on at the cinema. Ed
At a time when terrorism is still at the forefront of our minds, we forget that the worst tragedies come from our own doorstep.
We Need to Talk About Kevin follows Eva’s (Tilda Swinton) recollection of the events leading up to, and following, her son Kevin’s (Ezra Miller), massacre of students at his high school.
Its 40 minutes into the film and our back rests have remained unused since the lights went down.
Gripping from the start
As the story begins the audience is greeted with kaleidoscope of fractured scenes constantly merging and quickly dispersing, giving tantalising glimpses into Kevin’s subtly warped childhood.
The sporadic storytelling bears some resemblance to Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind; both films focus on memory and skilfully weave together seemingly incongruent scenes to piece together a larger story. The tale can be seen as a jigsaw – as the pieces are slowly assembled, they hint at their haunting conclusion.
Flawless performance
Swinton’s performance is flawless. Harnessing so much emotion in a single look; the oppressive invisible weight that she shoulders becomes almost tangible in light of her superb characterisation.
In the shadow of this grief, she maintains the propensity to demonstrate a palpable sense of joy. Surprised at being offered a job after the cataclysm caused by her son; she leaves the interview cradling her delight.
As she walks she is stopped and slapped by a woman, affected by Kevin’s atrocious act. The sound of the blow is amplified beyond realism and the shudder that runs through the tense audience mirrors Eva’s crash back into the reality of her situation.
Effective use of music
The soundtrack is used as a chilling counterpoint to the visuals of the piece. The use of childish melodies creates an ominous contrast that is unsettlingly jarring. Such a track is used over Eva’s taxi ride home on the night of Halloween. With costumed children roaming the streets, this forms one of the most evocative visual metaphors of the film.
As is reflected in the title, going to see We Need to Talk About Kevin may be an experience more needed than wanted.
Scores on the doors
Plot: 4/5 “A strong yet simple basis gives both writer and actors real freedom”
Acting: 5/5 “Commanding performances that will leave you wanting more”
Visuals: 5/5 “Littered with impressively composed images that will stay with you”
Soundtrack: 4/5 “Cleverly chosen tracks and sounds enhance the piece measurably”
Entertainment: 4/5 “Even if you might like to, you will struggle to look away”
Overall: 4/5
