Frances Ha (2012) User Reviews

Frances Hmmm...

[nikicianciola-702-657633 · 6/10 · 2 June 2013]

Can't really decide how I feel about this film. It was somewhat intriguing, beautifully shot (in black and white), and the lead character was perfectly cast. I love quirky characters in independent movies, but most of the time I couldn't decide if Frances was incredibly endearing or incredibly annoying. Immature, yes. Quirky, yes. Childlike, yes.

I didn't by any means hate this movie, but I did not love it as much as others. It is a film like no other, and worth a watch, but it left me feeling ambivalent. There was really no plot, which made sense because Frances didn't really seem to have any clearcut goals or ambitions (other than being a dancer, which wasn't ever going to happen). She lived moment by moment and the film took us on her journeys even though I am not sure they served much of a purpose.

beautiful.

[miner-23176 · 8/10 · 12 December 2018]

This movie is a sweet piece of art. Brilliant acting (Greta Gerwig is so into the character of Frances), excellent rhythm due to the fine/so accurate montage and very gentle touch of houmor at the right amount. The black and white gives to the whole movie a tone of shade which gives a nostalgic feeling. It will make you laugh, it will make you cry but above all it will bring you to the position to question your own motivations and choices in life and if fighting for your own goals is enough to finally make ends meet and come to balance with yourself. I really reccomend this movie and i'm happy that i discovered it.

Dreaming the Impossible Dream

[evanston_dad · 7/10 · 7 December 2013]

I'm at a phase in my life where I generally have little patience for stories about adults who refuse to grow up. So I had some frustration with "Frances Ha," in which Greta Gerwig plays a woman child who crashes with friends and sticks to her increasing unrealistic dream of being a dancer. But what saved "Frances Ha" for me was that I suspect Gerwig (who co-wrote the script with director Noah Baumbach) and Baumbach intend for us to be frustrated with Frances too. Life is a lot about compromise, and that's something that Frances won't accept until the film's end -- it's not all or nothing, and life can be satisfying without being a dream come true.

One of the things that did irk me about the movie was its implication that anyone who does seem to have his/her life together is either faking it, skating by on rich parents or vapid. It is actually possible to be both responsible and happy, something that movies, particularly a certain kind of indie movie (of which "Frances Ha" is an example), is reluctant to accept. But I still liked the movie despite its decision to perpetuate that message.

I can't decide whether or not I like Greta Gerwig, which makes her perfect casting for this role. Something about Frances is warm and winning, but something else is just as annoying. You understand both why people are drawn to her and turned off by her, because that's how I feel about her as an actress.

Grade: A-

The obligation of growing up

[StevePulaski · 9/10 · 9 June 2013]

Is it fair to call Frances Ha a product of the mumblecore movement in cinema or is it all too, well, professional? Noah Baumbach's examination of culture, early adulthood, and obsessive friendships not only makes for a good, topical debate but a very worthy motion picture, as Frances Ha is one of the strongest films this year. Heavy on dialog, characterization, and the strong, stable topics to examine, this is a thoughtful mediation on what it means to grow up, stay true to your friends, and be self-reliant.

The film stars the zealous Greta Gerwig (whose work in Hannah Takes the Stairs I still regard as terrific) as the title character, a plucky dancer at the age of twenty-seven, living with her best friend Sophie (Mickey Summer) and her best guy-friend Benji (Michael Zegen). Frances and her friend Sophie are like "straight lesbians," so Benji says, as they do everything together, and both of them would seemingly be lost without each other. The thought is put to the test when Sophie decides to move out of the cramped studio apartment in favor of moving in with another friend, leaving Frances sort of lost and unfulfilled with her current position in life.

This is basic framework for a story that begins to follow the path of a series of vignettes, focusing on the ups and downs in life, along with those awkward stretches no one really likes to talk about. Baumbach brilliantly captures this through a black and white lens, and allows his actors the freedom to get immersed in their characters with little restrictions in place.

Frances Ha does a lot in eighty-six minutes, like notably humanizing the "hipster" culture of the last few years, detail loneliness and friendships, impending adulthood, and dependence all the more. The humanization of "hipster" culture comes into play because we notice that these characters are not of the "typical" breed, whatever we define as typical. They are about as free and unrestrained as the wind that catches their hair, especially Frances herself, who is arguably one of the most fun characters I've had the pleasure of watching this year. There's something about the way she engages in quick-witted conversation, runs happily through the streets of Chinatown at random, and is constantly proclaiming she is "undateable.' Gerwig magically transforms a character bound for a caricature state of mind into a strong woman that may not be looked at as a role model for girls but certainly a realistic portrayal of many.

I imagine the loneliness that the loneliness and slight-depression Frances feels when Sophie leaves her is one many post-college girls will feel when their best girlfriend moves on to bigger and better things and she remains somewhat inert and stuck in her current life position. Baumbach details growing up in Frances Ha not as a choice but as an obligation, which it rightfully is in many regards, but the way he doesn't isn't condescending or superficial, but rather hopeful and endearing.

NOTE: My video review of Frances Ha, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yc6LbMzbGww

Starring: Greta Gerwig, Mickey Summer, and Michael Zegen. Directed by: Noah Baumbach.

Though Frances may be undateable, the film is unmissable

[howard.schumann · 9/10 · 23 June 2013]

Being called "undateable" is sort of like a team player being labeled "uncoachable," not a strong recommendation. This label tags maturity-challenged Frances (Greta Gerwig) in Noah Baumbach's warm-hearted comedy Frances Ha, a film that has genuine affection for its characters. Co-written by Baumbach and Gerwig and supported by an eclectic soundtrack that includes music by French film composer Georges Delerue and the songs of David Bowie, Frances Ha (the title is explained in the film's final shot) is a film in which people talk and act like real human beings, not cardboard caricatures manipulated by a self-conscious script that "strives for reality." Though the film is full of light-hearted energy, it does not strain to be quirky or "in your face." It is clever because that's the way it is.

Shot in black and white by cinematographer Sam Levy, 27-year-old Frances lives in a Brooklyn apartment with her girl friend Sophie (Mickey Sumner). She wants to be a dancer, and apprentices for a small dance company, but seems to lack the determination to really develop her talent. Though the exact nature of their relationship is not spelled out (what you see is what you get), they are at the very least good buddies who are tight. Frances says her relationship with Sophie is "like a lesbian couple that doesn't have sex anymore," but Sophie is not quite as attached and tells Frances that she has decided to move in with her upscale boyfriend Patch (Patrick Heusinger).

Refreshingly however, the story is not about relationships being the necessary ingredient of a woman's self-esteem, but simply one component of an internal growth process. Frances goes out with Lev (Adam Driver), another under-achieving New Yorker, but her economic needs trump her physical ones and she moves in with Lev and his roommate Benji (Michael Zegen) on a strictly platonic basis to save on the rent, although Benji develops a real connection with her (which Frances is blind to). She stumbles through relationships, not making a terrific impression. One woman tells her in talking about her friend, "You look a lot older, but you seem far less mature." Frances does not have the kind of job prospects that she alludes to with her friends and her overall veracity is questionable, but she makes up for it with tons of charm. She actually makes some stabs at shaking things up, going home to Sacramento to visit her parents (Gordon and Christine Gerwig, her real parents), impulsively flying to Paris for a weekend to prove to a friend that she can, and, upon returning after a joyless weekend, taking a job as a "drink pourer" at Vassar where she had gone to school. Unfortunately, the more things change, the more they stay the same.

Although Frances Ha is about young New Yorkers living on the margins, it is not and does not aspire to be a commentary on the current economic situation or the plight of young people. The film is about talented folks who have not quite gotten it together and whose level of responsibility lags somewhere below the norm. The characters have their flaws and are not always self aware, but Baumbach recognizes that the process of growth does not happen suddenly and refuses to judge his characters, or make snide commentaries about New Yorkers.

Frances Ha does not rely on formula or relationship clichés to make its points, but only on the performances to bring the characters to life. Baumbach and Gerwig take us on a wild ride without any clear signposts, yet the trip is poignant and even beautiful and we can joyously sense the light around the next turn. Unlike the angry, unpleasant Roger in Baumbach's previous film Greenberg, the more you hang around Frances (Greta Gerwig), the more you grow to like her insanely. Though Frances may be undateable, the film is unmissable.

Eccentric and funny

[MonsieurMS · 7 July 2018]

Bring out the adjectives--charming, quirky, funny, gentle. The cast is good, but Gerwig is terrific as the hapless dancer. She's likeable and pathetic at the same time. Everyone knows she is going to have a problem making it as a dancer, except her. This is her version of planning: she thinks about 10 minutes ahead. A sudden trip to Paris--but only 2 days, and then credit card debt. She doesn't seem to have a moment of fun there.

Poor Frances. She lurches from one moment to another, trying to figure out what life is and rarely succeeding. The journey is full of fun and laughter, though--well, at least for viewers. But eventually, the worm turns. Let's avoid spoilers and just say things change when Frances Halladay becomes Frances Ha. This is an indie film in the best sense of the genre, small scaled, but well crafted and thought out. Someone mentioned a Woody Allen-esque feel to it--and it does have some of those echoes, but just echoes. You can't dislike Frances. The film's a winner, too. Its wistful, understated feel is irresistible.

Some memorable dialogue exchanges stand out

[jordondave-28085 · 7/10 · 14 April 2023]

(2012) Frances Ha COMEDY DRAMA

Greta Gerwig's equivalent updated version of "1978 Girlfriends", except that in this movie her character plays a struggling dancer as opposed to a struggling photographer. Gerwig who was also credited as co-writer along with Noah Baumbach second of her four movies with him. Greta Gerwig stars as title character "Frances Ha", once her best friend, Sophie (Mickey Sumner) and long time live-in roommate decides to move out of their apartment, so that Sophie can live closer to her new boyfriend, Frances begins to struggle to find another roommate or to find another place.

Again, the positive rating is the result of the unique moments, improvised dialogue exchanges from director Noah Baumbach and his main star actress Greta Gerwig.

Shorn of the irrelevant, this is beautiful, touching, real

[secondtake · 9/10 · 4 December 2013]

Frances Ha (2012)

I liked this film in a kind of interested, warm way as it got going. Its black and white simplicity and its regular people both appeal on the most normal level.

The more I watched, however, and the more I absorbed the brilliance of the performance by leading actress playing Frances (Greta Gerwig), I became entranced and stunned. This is a great film. A great independent film, without production pretensions, but held together perfectly within its means.

This is worth making clear—the film makes a virtue of its simple approach. You'll never feel like it's technically compromised. The photography is a subtle, smart black and white. There's even one scene near the end where two people are talking in bed and they chose to use the very minimum of light, so you just barely see their faces. For a long deep conversation. Gorgeous, and effective.

It's Gerwig who steals the movie, for sure. And she helped write the really sparkling, believable, clever but never too-clever script. It's brilliant stuff. Brilliant. She hits a note of fast transparency, a totally "right" dialog and delivery. Way harder than it seems.

And the character she plays, Frances, is one of those lovable types where things don't go quite right even with all the best intentions. Most of us identify with that all too well. We have our better selves and we have the reality of where those good intentions have gotten us. And yet she perseveres. She puts up with strange but not unfriendly people around her in one apartment after another, and we get a glimpse of young New Yorkers with all their minor pretensions. Searing and funny and touching.

Don't be put off by the weird title (the one mistake in making the film) or by the beginning and its slow, restrained monochrome. The film makes the most of it all and is terrific.

Consistency mildly irritating.

[Sergeant_Tibbs · 6/10 · 16 November 2013]

A festival favourite last year, Frances Ha quickly earned a reputation for being Noah Baumbach's best yet and feeling like Wes Anderson plus Woody Allen. With those two filmmakers in mind, I couldn't have been more excited for it. I quite like Baumbach too, he's a welcome addition to the writing team with Wes Anderson's films, The Squid and The Whale is a great film and while Greenberg is only good, Greta Gerwig was a total highlight. He has an interesting quiet sense of drama that I can sometimes really connect to. However, Frances Ha was incredibly disappointing. Consistently mildly irritating is the phrase I'd use. It's far too in the middle, rarely approaching dramatic extremities. I didn't connect or empathise with Frances as she had very little at stake and little to do in general.

It's a film that thinks its more clever than it is. I didn't laugh once. While the dry jokes may be funny on paper, the deliveries never clicked and it's too quirky for its own good. Unfortunately the acting and cinematography are just too amateuristic. It feels more like a student film than anything from a professional. Maybe it's the choppy editing that killed it most with strange montages that don't have a sense of time of place resulting in it feeling disorientating. But then, these aspect give it a naive impish charm much like the protagonist, however it's just too self-aware for me. The thing about Frances Ha is that it definitely comes from a very genuine place. This isn't forced twee and that stops it from being cringeworthy, but that doesn't work for everyone.

I had to rewatch The Royal Tenenbaums straight after to make sure my sense of quirky humour was still in tact and in doing so, I realized what Frances Ha was lacking (as well as appreciating Tenenbaums more than ever). It lacks tragedy. What makes all Wes Anderson films work is the deep rooted emotion behind its quirkiness. Anderson puts them in this world with their behaviour as a way of dealing with, for example, a great loss. Frances has none of this. She just glides through life and it isn't endearing behaviour. Maybe if she had something, it would be a better film, but this film will only strike a chord with few. Even so, like Baumbach's other films, I'll admit it has a great soundtrack. I discovered some of my favourite songs from Greenberg and Squid, maybe I'll revisit this soundtrack too.

6/10

The best film which Woody Allen never made

[jackasstrange · 8/10 · 12 March 2014]

Frances Ha is a very good film. And It's almost indisputable that Frances Ha resembles Woody Allen oldest works. The satire against the so-called intellectuals, the satire of a - perhaps ridicule aspect of society, that is the obsession with organization and patronizing, and the fact that the character - the protagonist - is an allegory, each one of these aspects are present in Frances Ha. Of course, there is some originality on here. The black and white choice, the occasional 80s beat which pops out of nowhere and ends fitting perfectly the scene, the great acting by Greta Gerwig - all of these are aspects which makes Frances Ha an unique film. And the dialogs are nothing like in Woody's films - sure about that. There is some surreal dark- humor on them, and adds to the uniqueness of the film in general. Overall, very well written, acted and directed.

Certainly recommended. 8.5/10

This is one sad sad movie

[LadiesAndMovies · 6/10 · 27 February 2014]

One of my closest friends raved about this movie and said . On paper it sounded amazing: co- written and starring Greta Gerwig, with a focus on a non-perfect struggling 28 year old and her female friendships. So a female driven movie with some help from Noah Baumbach (The Squid and the Whale, Margot at the Wedding, etc.), perfect.

So my friend and me watched it after she'd borrowed it from a 50 year old co-worker (who just loved it) and it was just - underwhelming. The most obvious issue was that we were both expecting a quirky-Woody-Allen-NY-comedy, a bit like Girls, but smarter and more mature, and this movie is just so sad. Cringe worthy and pathetic sad. I'm not saying it's not relatable. In fact I think that's part of the problem. The reason my well employed friend or the 50 year old co- worker might have enjoyed it more is that they had some considerable distance to being confused about life and never taking the right decisions. For me the constant stress of not knowing where to live, of not knowing what you should do for a living, of losing friends to adulthood is just all to fresh and close to be enjoyable and/or nostalgic.

The movie does have things going for it - it does have a very strong focus on female friendship. The last scene especially says something very beautiful about the strength of having close friends. But for me that was too little too late. It's also nice that the movie doesn't judge the protagonist for being a failure in the eyes of society, it treats her with respect and shows her just as she is with all her awkward monologues at parties and neediness. With all those fresh and important elements I just wish the execution felt more palpable to me at the moment. Some reviewers have pointed to the lack of drive and the lack of conflict in the movie as problematic, and at the moment I have to agree, I think the movie so focused on being lost would have been easier to watch if there were some more distractions on screen. Perhaps in 20-30 years I'll think differently.

A fun examination of the human condition via a slice of Frances' life.

[stancube · 10/10 · 5 September 2012]

Noah Baumbach and Greta Gerwig lead us on an expansive journey that takes place in the confines of several years in the life of a single character - Frances. They co-wrote the film and Gerwig is sublimely engaging as Frances, a woman who prefers to focus on the moments along life's path rather than any sort of destination to the path itself.

Baumbach takes those incredibly realistic and often uncomfortable moments, shapes them into black-and-white vignettes that are both immediate and personal, and then precisely combines those vignettes into this delicate and funny film. It's rounded off by an unbelievably talented supporting cast who make "Frances Ha" an all-around joy to watch.

Adorable.

[farfadet_w · 7/10 · 6 April 2019]

One of the most adorable movies I've seen since a long time. Feel good, beautifully written/played. Now I have a huge smile that I can't take off and I look like a idiot. But a happy idiot ;)

noah baumbach becomes a much more cheerful man, and greta gerwig glows

[framptonhollis · 9/10 · 23 February 2018]

So much fun, so funny, so moving and beautiful and real. "Frances Ha" has gotten a few less than favorable reviews from folks on this very site, but I must strongly object to said reviews. Personally, this is just my kind of movie I guess. It's mostly plotless, episodically following the main character, Frances, as she struggles to make money and keep friends in NYC. It's very much in that classic indie movie mold of "oft-romantically-involved, witty, well educated twentysomethings living their daily lives with plenty of comedy and drama to go around," but there really is something about "Frances Ha" that makes it so much more special than the average film that fits this formula. Basically, one of the very best things your independent film can have is a performance by the lovely and talented Greta Gerwig, particularly as your film's leading lady, and especially when she's playing a character as compelling as this. She is super likable in every single scene she's in, but she still makes a boatload of face palming mistakes throughout the course of the film, while still being so lovable that you can't help but be on her side. She's just such a wonderful character, and is played with so much genuine honesty and accuracy by Gerwig (probably partially because Gerwig herself acts a lot like this in real life considering her overall mood during interviews and (more triumphantly recently) award speeches) that this movie becomes so much fun to "hang out" with, sort of like "American Graffiti" or "The Breakfast Club" or "Fast Times at Ridgemont High" or "Dazed and Confused" (as well as "Slacker" and The "Before" Trilogy) or even "Boogie Nights" to a certain extent; these are all movies I love, and I am so very grateful that a film like "Frances Ha" can now join such a list!

Frances Ha- A Disarmingly Sweet and Perceptively Witty Reflection on Mid-Twenties Malaise from Auteur Noah Baumbach

[generationfilm · 8/10 · 16 May 2013]

Auteur filmmaker Noah Baumbach has specialized throughout his career in humorlessly reflecting on the various purgatories in our lives, or rather those lost years of stasis where the unknowns of life's supposed plans hit the unknowns within ourselves head on. His study of post-collegiate malaise in Kicking and Screaming was the genesis of his uniquely quirky vision—a blend of Whit Stillman's observationally verbose wit and Woody Allen's hilarious yet humanist portraits—that has carried on to other notable character studies he's penned, such as the dysfunctional family drama The Squid and the Whale and the mid-life crisis comedy Greenberg. It was clear in the most sincere moments of the film Greenberg that Baumbach had a creative chemistry with one of its stars Greta Gerwig which has resulted in a new collaborative effort between them to create Baumbach's latest poignantly comedic film entitled Frances Ha, an energetically funny yet undeniably relatable contemplation on the aloof mid-twenties condition. Utilizing crisp black & white cinematography capturing the naturalistic backdrops of New York City, Sacramento, and Paris, Frances Ha possesses an alluring charm mostly through Greta Gerwig's charismatic performance but also in the film's embodiment of French New Wave revivalism that allows substance to shine in even the most monotonous of human interactions. This short and sweet tale on the ambiguity of adult life highlights the changing nature of responsibility, friendship, and love with a surprisingly modest and heartfelt genuineness rarely experienced in film. Though it might have some minor similarities to Lena Dunham's HBO show "Girls" there is no denying that Frances Ha is distinctly Baumbach in character design, cinematic style, and written cleverness. Protagonist Frances proclaims that she "loves things that appear as mistakes" which on its face is the eloquent sentiment that summarizes the film's genuine depiction of mid-twenties paralysis in the face of responsibility. Frances Ha ranks highly in Noah Baumbach's worthwhile filmography because it is probably his most accessible, authentically charming, and least pretentious film all thanks to the screen writing aid and engaging performance from Greta Gerwig.

Full of genre tropes but Gerwig delivers well to find a genuineness and engaging character in the core

[bob the moo · 24 May 2014]

I like it when a film gives you early warning that you need to be in a certain mood to watch it and in the case of France Ha we get just such an opening. Two twenty-something woman goofing around in New York, play- fighting in the park, free-wheeling through the streets and generally not caring who sees or what others think. Being honest it is a beginning that put me on edge somewhat as I have seen too many films where carefree beautiful people seem to live an unaffordable life while also seeming to have no income and no worries other than the artistic/relationship/comedic/beautiful problems that they encounter on their way through the film. The start of the film makes it very clear that at very least this is the territory that we are in.

But yet I really liked it. In reality there is a bit of that in the film because it is not only a world and lifestyle I'm unfamiliar with, but also one that does grate a little and, to be frank, like many other films it does have the feel of hipster fairytale/fantasy about it. The thing it does very well though is to work within this frame and produce an engaging character in Frances who is likable (despite her cutesy quirkiness) and also what she feels and goes through, even if the specifics of her situation are different. The feeling of Frances not really knowing where she is going, bouncing from one flat-share to the next (albeit awesome flats) is very well done and Gerwig delivers it very well, somehow managing to get through all the traps of the genre.

Baumbach's direction and construction is mostly good, but to me he is the one pushing the film in a weaker direction with his approach to the material and the film owes a debt to Gerwig that she manages to find a character for the viewer to go with in spite of everything else. Unless you particularly love the general characters and tropes of the genre you will find this film a potentially hard sell but there is a genuineness at the core of it that makes it work very well.

Amazing

[hilnry · 10/10 · 30 March 2019]

I was really close to cry all the time, cuse it was so beautiful and sad but at the same time so funny. I don't know. I just loved it so so so much. greta girwig is so amazing. I highly recommend it.

Story was good but felt like a student film

[RogueVirus24 · 7/10 · 16 May 2021]

Most parts of the movie felt fast and happy, but there were some slow parts too but overall I liked it the story was great to watch but then again I felt like Greta Gerwig was just Greta Gerwig in this movie...

An engaging story of when two college friends begin to grow in different directions.

[bobdqo · 10/10 · 30 September 2012]

I loved this movie. It was touching movie dealing with trying to become a more responsible adult without losing your sense of who you are. It also deals well with the importance of meaningful relationships in our lives. What Woody Allen did in his homage to Manhattan in the 20th century, Noah Baumbach does for Brooklyn in the 21st Century. Like Manhattan did trying to capture the spirit of New York City in the 1970s, Frances Ha captures the angst of this period focusing on singles living in Brooklyn. The engaging character of Frances also draws comparisons to Annie Hall. There are some elements in the film that brought back memories of the film Stranger than Paradise by Jim Jarmusch but this film comes across as funnier and more engaging.

An nice tale with a seriously frustrating central character

[eddie_baggins · 6/10 · 5 March 2014]

Crafting his most Woody Allen lite film yet, Allen's seemingly heir apparent Noah Baumbach's black and white New York set tale of modern day women and questionable life choices was a critical darling upon release and a film many would rank as one of their personal favourites of last year. Now for this to occur for yourself you will need to fall in love with Baumbach's and Gerwig's creation of Frances for if you don't (like I did) the films impact will be nothing more than slight enjoyment.

Nothing is wrong with a character that makes bad choice after bad choice or who seems more concerned with going to a party than getting a decent job but in the case of our carefree Frances it just seems a little much. It could be the case that Baumbach's film is more accurate than we would care to admit when concerning oneself with the youth of today but it doesn't make the film anymore impactful. Gerwig is without doubt a fantastic Frances and it would be fair to say that this is her star making vehicle. It is due to her performance that Frances Ha succeeded in the way it did on release and was made tolerable despite our better judgements.

As I am readily admitting that I did not find the character of Frances or any others in the film that wholly likable I am in agreeance with the critical and general public that Baumbach's film is filled with charm and acts as a love letter to the Big Apple that few films can capture. The black and white style fits in perfectly with the easy on the eye cinematography and the upbeat musical score and the film has a charm within that makes it truly hard to despise.

For those that connect with Frances and her merry band of hipster friends Frances Ha will be a true joy and perhaps a new favourite to add to other New York set classics, for those like me who found the characters a little to slap worthy there is much still to enjoy in this tale of modern day love, friendship and life.

On a side note to the film lets hope that Frances Ha star and Girls regular Adam Driver can pull off being a Star Wars villain if rumours of his casting are to be believed.

3 spare of the moment Paris trips out of 5

For more movie reviews and opinions check out -

www.jordanandeddie.wordpress.com

I love it

[mahmus · 10/10 · 20 March 2020]

So. Damn. Charming! It's so damn good!

It's the perfect balance if emotions. The right amount of funny, the right amount of melancholy and the right amount of quirky. And it's all done with a level of subtlety tha makes the whole thing feel all the more real and honest.

Greta Gerwig is absolutely amazing. Her performance is so full of life and she conveys a great variety of emotions in a very believable, understated way. It's great. I love it.

I love this movie.

Gerwig owns, Baumbach's Best!

[ClaytonDavis · 9/10 · 20 September 2012]

Frances Ha (***½)

Noah Baumbach has really outdone himself in his newest film, Frances Ha starring Greta Gerwig, who also co-writes. The film not only stands as one of the great films of 2012, it's the best of Baumbach's career. The film is full of charm, spunk, and a massive amount of heart. Baumbach makes crucial choices that keep the film from going from brilliant to overtly predictable. Frances Ha has sharp direction and dialogue delivered profoundly by lead Greta Gerwig and one of the great ensembles of the year that includes the great Adam Driver and Mickey Sumner. The choice to present the film in black and white is not only tenderly appreciated but immensely gleaming. The editing, done by Jennifer Lame, is a tightly packed and intelligently executed; Lame showcases herself as a young Thelma Schoonmaker in the making. Gerwig's "Frances," who is a blend of Alyson Hannigan's character from American Pie and an artistic hybrid of Ellen Page in Juno, is so lovable, even when she's making poor choices and wonderfully heartwarming. Gerwig is worthy to stand with any Lead Actress contenders for the Academy Awards. It's a tender and loving turn. It's always great to see someone love and dedicate themselves to a character the way Gerwig demonstrates. Supporting players Adam Driver, best known for his unlovable presence on HBO's "Girls," lightens up and becomes someone tangible. Driver is a talent to watch. Mickey Sumner, reminiscent of Charlotte, Scarlett Johansson's role in Lost in Translation, is one of 2012's great finds. Her "Sophie" is an oxymoron of what is a great companion and a beautiful cinematic personality. You love "Sophie," worry about her, long to be with her, though she seems unavailable and absent. That's credit to Sumner's turn. The star of the film is the screenplay by Baumbach and Gerwig, who both pen the best modern American comedy since Diablo Cody's Juno. There's integrity in what they're writing. They assemble this "Frances" from scratch, frame by frame, adding comedic beats that fit her and not just for the sake of a laugh. They respect the audience watching. Frances Ha is the best indie-comedy of the year. A true awards contender for screenplay and Greta Gerwig; if justice exists will include them among any nominees. New York Film Festival is gearing up!

To read more go to the Awards Circuit (http://www.awardscircuit.com)

Gratuitously self aware homage to self

[leiberharley748 · 24 December 2013]

This movie is a paen to self absorption reflected back through film. Basically a series of disconnected character sketches masquerading as a "film".

First you have the character of place. Brooklyn. Black and white...grey..rundown...but artistically dressed in modern day nuance of hipster cool. ( Note to director..."only show certain parts of neighborhood" notes were obvious. )

Frances and gf. Cliché.

GF: millions of them of them..cell phone obsessed, head down, people..waiting..for someone or something ( job, husband, bf family,)give them meaning.

Frances: Goof ball..kind of like modern day Lucy. Harmless. NYC "poor".

Men: losers, losers with parents money, losers who think they are artists on the verge of discovery, losers who drink too much..

Women: reduced to "one night stand" characters...

Waste of 90 minutes...

A friendship story

[omeralaa · 8/10 · 10 August 2020]

Frances, as she was described, she looks older but less growing up. Noah and Greta wrote an interesting character who is a spontaneous, energetic, childish and a loyal friend, She is just talking about anything come in her mind. And Greta's performance was really great, you can see in her eyes when she's happy, sad, angry and in love. The friendship between her and Mickey Sumner was exquisitely beautiful, it was written and performed perfectly, the chemistry between Greta and Mickey was remarkable.

I'd like to appreciate the charming dialogue which was realistic, interesting and funny. Writers when they trying to write a realistic dialogue most of the time they end up with a boring one, but definitely this dialogue wasn't.

The movie was fast paced but it wasn't rushed, we saw her growing up journey without any moment of boring, and all the credits go to the editing and the fast cuts. And how the music starts from some point and how it ends was epic.

mixed

[proud_luddite · 6/10 · 18 February 2020]

This modern comedy-drama centres mostly around young New York adults who have their ups and downs around work, money, status, sex, and love. The main character, Frances Hadley, is played by Greta Gerwig who co-wrote the screenplay with the film's director, Noah Baumbach.

Baumbach does fine work as a director as most scenes are short and energetic. It is tempting at times to compare his style and subject matter (neurotic New Yorkers) with those of Woody Allen. He is well aided by a very good cast highlighted by Gerwig.

Around the second half of the film, it's difficult to empathize. The main character gets lost in a series of lies and compulsive debting for the purpose of keeping up appearances and social climbing. Such a character would be interesting in a story as a supporting character - someone who could provide laughter and insight while displaying their obnoxious behaviour. But this doesn't bode well when it is the main character which takes potential away from what seemed like a promising film. It even gets painful to constantly watch someone self-destruct.