The Eclectic Cinema Presents:
The Lobster (15)
Ireland/UK | 2015
Directed by: Yorgos Lanthimos
Starring: Colin Farrell | Rachel Weisz | Olivia Colman
Written and directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, whose latest film Poor Things has been in cinemas recently, this one fits into our Weird Films series very well. Starting with an absurd premise – that single people must find a mate within 45 days, or be turned into an animal of their choosing – the narrative, in a dead-pan style, follows through the inevitable implications. It’s up to the viewer to find the comparators with life and attitudes in the real world (whatever that is).
Some have liked this film; some have hated it. There seems no middle way. Nevertheless, it was a commercial success on release almost ten years ago – grossing some US$18 million – as well as receiving critical acclaim, winning the Jury Prize at Cannes, where it premiered.
Lanthimos assembled a stellar cast, many in supporting roles to the main protagonist (Colin Farrell and Rachel Weisz), including Jessica Barden, Olivia Colman, John C. Reilly, Léa Seydoux, and Ben Wishaw.
A surprising, funny, thought-provoking film to see, or see again!
