TV Film: Olive Kitteridge (2014), directed by Lisa Cholodenko

“Olive Kitteridge” is probably the best film I have seen in a year now. It is based on Elizabeth Strout’s book which won its author a Pulitzer prize for literature. This is one of the rare cases where everything – literary
material, script, acting, directing, music – is in such perfect sync and of such high quality – that the mere pleasure of watching is added on top of experiencing and understanding the drama of the characters. The sentiment is just the right amount and the wittiness – just the right degree.
And even though Frances McDormand’s acting has some excess of curtness and a programmatic element in it, it balances well with the melancholic coolness of Bill Murray and the soft presence of Richard Jenkins. Lisa Cholodenko demonstrates once again a superb taste in choice of material and actors and a deep understanding of the human condition. Thie film is just excellent. Nothing is overstated and nobody is spared yet a gentle forgiveness and despair dominate the ending – a mix that is true to life and lacking in fake “uplifting” messages. It’s a matter of “can you handle the truth” to really enjoy it…