Movie No. 10 (2014): BLUE JASMINE

Blue Jasmine (2013)
Director: Woody Allen
Cast: Cate Blanchett, Sally Hawkins, Alec Baldwin, Peter Sarsgaard

Jasmine, a (fallen) Manhattan socialite, travels first class to San Francisco to live temporarily with her (adopted) sister. She's (now) broke and homeless, in denial, and "on the verge of a nervous breakdown." Most of the movie is about her reflections on the life she has lost.

Cate Blanchett has won practically all critics' praises for her take on the Jasmine character. Her more recent wins include those from the Golden Globes and SAG. She's a major contender for the Best Actress at the Academy Awards in March. All these are not without reason. Cate Blanchett is simply mesmerizing, particularly in scenes that suggest Jasmine's getting near "the edge" of her sanity. She has been fully transformed into Jasmine. Sally Hawkins as Ginger, Jasmine's sister, complements Cate Blanchett's spectacular acting. She, too, is great as supporting actress.    

So, I'm not the only who, at one point, thought I was watching a very loose adaptation (or updating) of A Streetcar Named Desire. That's not a bad thing. Actually, it's clever. Woody Allen's writing/directing genius shines anew in this movie.

Rating: 4.0/4.0

Date seen: January 19, 2014