Director/writer: Jim Jarmusch
Rated: R (nudity, language)
Cast: Isaach De Bankolé, Tilda Swinton, Paz de la Huerta, Gael García Bernal, and Bill Murray

The Limits of ControlThe Limits of Control isn’t like typical movies. Its puzzling story along with strange and limited dialog definitely makes it unusual. It is easy to understand why some viewers can’t stand this movie, however I loved it. Though I’ll admit at times it was tough to stay awake, that doesn’t mean I didn’t enjoy this work of art…and really that’s what it is.

Every frame of this film could make a gorgeous still photograph. Our lead (Bankolé) looks like a model wearing his designer suits while sipping espresso in the breathtaking Spanish countryside. The many cameos are as fun as they are bizarre and the interactions between the characters seem to make no sense at all.

Trying to thoroughly explain the story of this movie would be fruitless. We follow our Lone Man (Bankolé) as he travels, meets with colorful characters, exchanges match boxes, reads a message on a slip of paper and proceeds to eat said paper. He’s clearly on a mission of illicit nature, and it takes us (or me at least) until the end to find out what the objective actually is.

As the title suggests, the film tests the limits of control we have. Our main character is the ultimate male in control. The film is philosophical, moreso than entertaining. It is a beauty to look at and a pleasure to think about. Perfectly superb acting, brilliant shots, and a soundtrack that perfectly compliments the whole mix makes this a visual and aural treat. This film is just one more reason while Jim Jarmusch is rising as my favorite director in addition to his detailed eye and immense creativity.
IMDb/trailer | Official site

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