Xixax Film Forum

The Director's Chair => Paul Thomas Anderson => Topic started by: Drill on March 03, 2020, 06:59:55 PM

Title: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Drill on March 03, 2020, 06:59:55 PM
Since I was probably derailing the HAIM thread too much and should leave those who enjoy them in peace, I thought maybe starting this thread would be more productive. Let's try to make it more than just "this film is overrated/underrated", etc. Of course, "unpopular" doesn't just mean negative.

I'll start with some (the first one I've voiced ad nauseam):

-Enough with the music videos, please. At least for a while.

-April Grace gives the best performance in Magnolia.

-I never really got the love for the Fiona Apple relationship and it's surprising that all these years later, people still put them on a pedestal.

-I wish he'd be willing to direct other people's scripts. I wonder if you told him in 1997 that in 2020 that he'd only have made 8 films what his response would be.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: wilberfan on March 03, 2020, 07:29:02 PM
Not a terrible idea for a thread.  Although around these parts I wonder how popular the thread will be?

I'm trying to think if I have any unpopular PTA opinions.  The most obvious one was my initial butthurt with INHERENT VICE--definitely an unpopular opinion with most PTA fans--but that diminished to mere agnosticism with my 2nd viewing at the New Bev recently.   I'll have to think if I have any others.   

I go back and forth as to whether Julianne Moore's performance in MAGNOLIA is fine--or if it's too over the top--even for that film.

April was wonderful in that film--but I'm not sure I'd call it the movie's best?  I could easily see an argument for that, though.

I always rank HARD EIGHT higher than most people do, does that count?

My taste in other movies is definitely unpopular around here.  (See OUATIH, PARASITE, et al...)
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Robyn on March 03, 2020, 07:58:21 PM
Over the years he has only gotten better and his output in the 10s is the best decade yet. Not sure if unpopular, tho.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Drill on March 03, 2020, 08:05:17 PM
It could be about anything regarding him, not just the films.

I'm fine with Moore in Magnolia except for when Linda hits Phil. That's the only scene where she kind of faltered and I think they should've gone for another take. Other than that, I think she's pretty fun in an Elizabeth Taylor kind of way.

- I never thought he was all that cocky in the BN/Magnolia days. I think if anything, these days he's too humble. I wish he talked with more confidence about his work. I remember his first interview for PT when he said something to the tune of "I guess we're going for the Rebecca thing, I'm sure we failed but...." . Come on man,  you're trying to get people to want to go see your movie.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Drill on March 03, 2020, 08:10:57 PM
Quote from: Robyn on March 03, 2020, 07:58:21 PM
Over the years he has only gotten better and his output in the 10s is the best decade yet. Not sure if unpopular, tho.

Not here I don't think but maybe to the general public. I think most would consider TWBB and BN his best.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: WorldForgot on March 03, 2020, 08:33:24 PM
Quote from: Drill on March 03, 2020, 08:05:17 PM
I think they should've gone for another take..

Lol!
Love this phrasing because it's not a problem with the edit but some fleeting production decision.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: kingfan011 on March 03, 2020, 09:07:59 PM
Here's one. Whatever you think of The Master or Phantom Thread I think those are exactly the films he intended to make. On the other hand I think he got totally lost in the weeds in Inherent Vice and lost control. I think its hysterical his only writing nomination this decade came from Inherent Vice.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Rooty Poots on March 03, 2020, 10:31:34 PM
I think I would've liked Inherent Vice much more as a tv show/miniseries. It felt too constrained by the limitations of film, for me, with the runtime to the arc. Giving it more space to breathe and tell the story might've resulted in a less flawed end product in my opinion.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Jeremy Blackman on March 03, 2020, 10:37:21 PM
Quote from: Drill on March 03, 2020, 08:05:17 PMI'm fine with Moore in Magnolia except for when Linda hits Phil. That's the only scene where she kind of faltered and I think they should've gone for another take. Other than that, I think she's pretty fun in an Elizabeth Taylor kind of way.

Magnolia is still my favorite movie, and it probably will be forever, but I think Julianne Moore is the clear weakness of the film. Like you're saying, some of the takes are just bad. She obviously shines in the pharmacy scene, but outside of that I think her performance could have used some work.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Drill on March 03, 2020, 11:02:31 PM
I still really like Inherent Vice as is but I do think he probably worried too much about staying faithful to the book and forgot to have fun with it. He sort of said as much. He seemed almost shocked during the Phantom Thread press tour whenever someone mentioned liking it.


Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: jenkins on March 03, 2020, 11:08:23 PM
it's known that he's not in my overall top twenty and i am positive about liking only three of his movies
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: trytotell on March 03, 2020, 11:16:26 PM
I like IV, but I think Waterston was his biggest miscasting (not counting Kel O'Neill  :yabbse-grin:). I don't really like how she played the role and her scenes just didn't quite work. Why was she slurring her words like she was half-asleep? She's supposed to stand out more than any other woman in the film, but I think Joanna Newsom and Hong Chau "popped" way more than her. Phoenix also had clearly better chemistry with Witherspoon and I wish she had been in the film more. From what I remember, Penny is in the book almost as much as Shasta, but he clearly didn't care about Penny and was focused too much on Shasta. Not really a fan of Waterston in what else I've seen from her either.


This is more off-track, but I thought it sucked how little DDL did for PT on the press tour. I wonder what their current relationship is like and if they were covering some sort of falling out, but the vibes between them were off.

Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Alethia on March 04, 2020, 07:50:08 AM
Not necessarily unpopular, but opinions NEVERTHELESS

- There Will Be Blood is NOT his best film. Personally, I'd rank it second or third from the bottom.
- I've also always felt Julianne was the weak link in Magnolia, despite some effective moments. Also the Dixon rap scene is cringe-y.
- Inherent Vice goes down smoother if you pause it halfway through for 20-30 minutes (for me, just before the Bigfoot/Pancake scene).
- He does not look good with long hair, nor freshly shaven.
- He was hot back in the 90s (still handsome). He and Fiona were 90s hot together. Don't pretend this didn't contribute to your initial fandom.

- He should quit smoking.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: trytotell on March 04, 2020, 08:21:58 AM
I thought of another one: I wish we knew more about his mom and their relationship. It's not our business of course, but I think she's the real key to everything in his work, it was never Ernie. Even the father/son trope was really about her. If we did know more about her, his films would seem less "obtuse" to a lot of people. The PT press tour was great but they really fumbled the perfect opportunity to really ask and press him about her. Instead, we always get the usual Ghoulardi mentions.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Tdog on March 04, 2020, 11:49:28 AM
Quote from: trytotell on March 03, 2020, 11:16:26 PM
This is more off-track, but I thought it sucked how little DDL did for PT on the press tour. I wonder what their current relationship is like and if they were covering some sort of falling out, but the vibes between them were off.

It definitely felt as though there were some weird vibes between PTA, DDL and Vicky Krieps at those live audience events.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Alethia on March 04, 2020, 12:00:14 PM
I remember at the DGA screening DDL said he hadn't even watched the film yet and likely wasn't going to.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Drenk on March 04, 2020, 12:03:14 PM
He had an existential crisis while shooting, even though he had flirted with the idea of retirement for years. I don't find that particularly weird.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: trytotell on March 04, 2020, 12:15:06 PM
I too noticed he seemed to be avoiding Krieps. Maybe he developed real feelings for her or something lol. Just kidding.

I guess they probably just needed a break from each other after a claustrophobic shoot. I hope they're still close though.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Alma on March 04, 2020, 01:15:07 PM
Yeah apparently Krieps was with PTA at the Uncut Gems screening recently so it seems they're friends at least. DDL is just awkward doing press in general so it might not mean anything.

Unpopular PTA opinions:
- Inherent Vice is a masterpiece
- Julianne's Moore's Magnolia arc is great
- I like Haim lmao
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Tdog on March 04, 2020, 01:53:45 PM
Quote from: Alma on March 04, 2020, 01:15:07 PM
Yeah apparently Krieps was with PTA at the Uncut Gems screening recently so it seems they're friends at least.

Oh that's good!
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Alethia on March 04, 2020, 02:02:04 PM
Ugh I wanna be friends with them.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: ThereWillBeOreos on March 04, 2020, 02:15:40 PM
Punch-Drunk Love, TWBB, and The Master is his best work. These are interchangeable for my favorite PTA movie!

I watched IV two times, it was hard both times, but for some reason, my mind's been thinking of a third rewatch for some reason.

All his movies should be on Criterion!

Okay so maybe these aren't unpopular :(
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: putneyswipe on March 04, 2020, 02:42:23 PM
Not an "unpopular" opinion per se but the more I revisit it the more I think The Master towers alone over the rest of his work.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Robyn on March 04, 2020, 02:49:14 PM
IV is as it's best when it's not focusing on the plot of the novel and is just PTA doing his usually thing.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: axxonn on March 04, 2020, 03:22:10 PM
Quote from: trytotell on March 03, 2020, 11:16:26 PM
I like IV, but I think Waterston was his biggest miscasting (not counting Kel O'Neill  :yabbse-grin:). I don't really like how she played the role and her scenes just didn't quite work. Why was she slurring her words like she was half-asleep? She's supposed to stand out more than any other woman in the film, but I think Joanna Newsom and Hong Chau "popped" way more than her. Phoenix also had clearly better chemistry with Witherspoon and I wish she had been in the film more. From what I remember, Penny is in the book almost as much as Shasta, but he clearly didn't care about Penny and was focused too much on Shasta. Not really a fan of Waterston in what else I've seen from her either.


This is more off-track, but I thought it sucked how little DDL did for PT on the press tour. I wonder what their current relationship is like and if they were covering some sort of falling out, but the vibes between them were off.

I think Waterston was absolutely perfect - I really can't imagine anyone else who could embody Shasta like she did. Don't forget, we only ever see Shasta in context of (and with) Doc, and each scene with her is a total daze of semi-hallucination (in reference to your comment that she sounds "half-asleep"). To me, physically and spiritually, she conveys everything about Shasta and those other women of the era who were swept up by social movements and other undercurrents and who gradually become lost  to themselves and those around them. It's a really hard part too, because she's basically a ghost. But everything about her demeanour, her words, the evident old magnetism between her and Doc - it's all there.  I think the flashback with her and Doc in the rain is one of the best single moments PTA has ever put on film.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Tdog on March 04, 2020, 03:24:19 PM
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DU9AsA0W0AAI-ox.jpg)
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: jviness02 on March 04, 2020, 03:38:36 PM
1. Julianne Moore is bad in Magnolia

2. I still love it, but Magnolia is a bit of an immature mess. It kind of feels like one of those movies you watch as a high school senior and think is super deep and then when you watch it again as an adult and  you realize it's not.

3.  The Master is definitely his best film.

4.  Most of his modern music videos aren't special and if someone else directed them, none of us would care. That's not really a criticism of him as I don't think he puts much thought in them, but maybe a criticism of us PTA heads who over-analyze everything.

5.  Adam Sandler has given the best performance in a PTA film.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: wilberfan on March 04, 2020, 03:43:40 PM
Quote from: jviness02 on March 04, 2020, 03:38:36 PM
4.  Most of his modern music videos aren't special and if someone else directed them, none of us would care.

I can feel my reluctance to admit this to myself, but with the possible exception of ANIMA, this is extremely true.   
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: jviness02 on March 04, 2020, 03:47:18 PM
Quote from: wilberfan on March 04, 2020, 03:43:40 PM
Quote from: jviness02 on March 04, 2020, 03:38:36 PM
4.  Most of his modern music videos aren't special and if someone else directed them, none of us would care.

I can feel my reluctance to admit this to myself, but with the possible exception of ANIMA, this is extremely true.

Ah, I wasn't even thinking of ANIMA as a music video. ANIMA is indeed an exception. It's great.

I'll add another one I forgot to mention:

Junun is boring.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Alethia on March 04, 2020, 03:56:49 PM
Quote from: jviness02 on March 04, 2020, 03:47:18 PM
Quote from: wilberfan on March 04, 2020, 03:43:40 PM
Quote from: jviness02 on March 04, 2020, 03:38:36 PM
4.  Most of his modern music videos aren't special and if someone else directed them, none of us would care.

I can feel my reluctance to admit this to myself, but with the possible exception of ANIMA, this is extremely true.

Ah, I wasn't even thinking of ANIMA as a music video. ANIMA is indeed an exception. It's great.

I'll add another one I forgot to mention:

Junun is boring thrilling.

Fixed.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: wilberfan on March 04, 2020, 03:57:09 PM
This just brought something to mind.  I have literally watched every known PTA effort more than one time with ONE exeption:  Junun.   Not particularly because I found it boring (there were parts I found rather interesting--although don't ask me to name them now).

For the Uber-PTA fans here, are there ANY projects of his you've only seen once?  And/or have no interest in revisiting?  (We can make this a separate topic, if need be.)
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: jenkins on March 04, 2020, 03:57:32 PM
i think the way some people think about iv is how i think about the master. i'm like: what are you talking about, what is doing it for you, and are you sure you're sure. when i think of what there is to uncover and hear about what people have uncovered i'm like: yeah you can have that, that's yours.

idk man what sings to you sings to you
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: WorldForgot on March 04, 2020, 04:01:20 PM
Quote from: Alma on March 04, 2020, 01:15:07 PM

Unpopular PTA opinions:
- Inherent Vice is a masterpiece
- I like Haim lmao

Ditto ~
My unpopular opinion I guess iz that Inherent Vice is his best film.

Quote from: wilberfan on March 04, 2020, 03:57:09 PM

For the Uber-PTA fans here, are there ANY projects of his you've only seen once? 

Anima. Only seen it at that City Walk screening we went to ~
Meanwhile, Junun I put on quite often. Especially for friends that don't know PTA but dig Radiohead.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Drill on March 04, 2020, 04:15:18 PM
I don't know about best but I think The Master is his most honest film. It's no coincidence that it's his follow-up to TWBB, which tops best of the century lists, when he became the "best of his generation" for a lot of people. I view it as a very personal, self-critical work, him wondering if he's worthy of the plaudits he receives, "maybe I'm just a fraud?", etc.

Magnolia IMO is his most dishonest. It's very earnest and entertaining but it's also full of shit. It goes back to the Fiona relationship. I get why people love it passionately, but it's obvious why he's kind of embarrassed by it now.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: jenkins on March 04, 2020, 04:18:44 PM
yeah i mean iv kills it imo. people are like oh the narrative but what about the narrative they want to grasp the narrative. first of all i think it's a rather coherent narrative it just lacks the emotional arcs and whatnot. second of all the narrative is shaped like a city and that is scrumptious
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Drenk on March 04, 2020, 04:25:57 PM
Waterston is bad in IV. Especially when the VO says that Doc couldn't read her complex expression and she comically sobs.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: jenkins on March 04, 2020, 04:33:49 PM
the movie itself is the performance
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Drenk on March 04, 2020, 04:38:32 PM
Well, I love the movie. But that first scene should be great and it's always very awkward to watch for me. But I admit that I find her all right in her other big scene.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Drill on March 04, 2020, 04:45:03 PM
Quote from: Drenk on March 04, 2020, 04:25:57 PM
Waterston is bad in IV. Especially when the VO says that Doc couldn't read her complex expression and she comically sobs.

And "hair a lot shorter than he remembered" and she walks in with long hair. Not important, but weird to leave that in.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Alethia on March 04, 2020, 04:59:27 PM
That opening scene is mesmerizing. Shorter but still long hair, heavy combination of face ingredients, Thinking comes later... What else?

Quote from: jenkins on March 04, 2020, 04:18:44 PM
second of all the narrative is shaped like a city...

Lovely.

Unpopular opinion: DDL in Phantom Thread>DDL in TWBB
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Freddie Dodd on March 04, 2020, 05:07:45 PM
Paul Dano somewhat boggles TWBB down a notch for me. I can't decide if it's just his performance or DDL chewing up the scenery that makes his performance not measure up to the quality of the film.

Magnolia is a self-indulgent mess that should be shy away from. It's a film of what not to do as an ambitious young filmmaker.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Alethia on March 04, 2020, 05:10:54 PM
Quote from: Freddie Dodd on March 04, 2020, 05:07:45 PM
It's a film of what not to do as an ambitious young filmmaker.

SCORCHING hot take
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Freddie Dodd on March 04, 2020, 05:37:37 PM
The film has surfaced a backlash enough that I don't think it counts as that edgy of a hot take. It just doesn't hold up very well to repeat viewings.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: wilberfan on March 04, 2020, 05:41:40 PM
And I like it more every time I see it.  :ponder:
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Alethia on March 04, 2020, 05:52:45 PM
I think it's aged beautifully, warts, pockmarks, and all. Where is this backlash coming from?
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Freddie Dodd on March 04, 2020, 06:33:51 PM
On twitter there was some fans of Anderson who seem to think it's aged horribly and a mark of an immature artist. Seem this kind of comment after Netflix put it on their streaming output library.  This opinion has been around for awhile now, as I remember David Thomson wrote in his book about the film in a similar tone, though praising PTA for his artistry.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: jenkins on March 04, 2020, 06:40:43 PM
have any of you guys read this one (https://www.amazon.com/Paul-Thomas-Anderson-Contemporary-Directors/dp/0252040368/) btw. he's linked with guy maddin (https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0866014/). i haven't read it bc it's not really my thing. i know his personal favorite is pdl
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Alethia on March 04, 2020, 07:14:47 PM
Quote from: Freddie Dodd on March 04, 2020, 06:33:51 PM
On twitter there was some fans of Anderson who seem to think it's aged horribly and a mark of an immature artist.

Twitter ruins everything. Ridiculous to take aim at Maggie and not, say, Boogie Nights, too, if we're crying "immature."
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: jviness02 on March 04, 2020, 09:18:20 PM
Not that it matters, but PTA clearly is embarrassed by Magnolia. On his AMA, he even said Junun was better!
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Alethia on March 04, 2020, 09:31:00 PM
Imagine being so cool that Magnolia is the work you regret.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Tdog on March 05, 2020, 08:02:49 AM
I love Magnolia but a friend of mine summed up pretty well why he preferred PTA's newer work to Magnolia. He considered Magnolia to be "too emotionally saturate" and preferred the more subtle approach to The Master/Inherent Vice.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: ThereWillBeOreos on March 05, 2020, 11:27:22 AM
I agree. I actually think his new project is a sort of retooling of Magnolia, if it'll be a full ensemble.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: pynchonikon on March 05, 2020, 12:48:49 PM
Quote from: ThereWillBeOreos on March 05, 2020, 11:27:22 AM
I actually think his new project is a sort of retooling of Magnolia, if it'll be a full ensemble.

My thoughts exactly when the first details of the high school project dropped. He wishes so much he could go back in time to tell his younger self "that's how you should do it". (I don't love Magnolia as much as I used to, but I like it for what it is, a perfect representation of how ambitious a promising artist can be.)
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Alethia on March 05, 2020, 12:50:19 PM
"Too emotionally saturate", it's a big splashy melodrama! The breakdowns and outbursts are part and parcel of its cinematic DNA. They're musical numbers! I recognize it doesn't all work 100% but I don't care, it's urgency and earnestness is still a key part of its power for me, and I'll never forget how very much it changed my world when I first saw it. Whatevs, to each their own, everyone's too cool these days, even The Man himself.

Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: wilberfan on March 05, 2020, 01:08:28 PM
Quote from: eward on March 05, 2020, 12:50:19 PM
"Too emotionally saturate", it's a big splashy melodrama!


That's exactly what makes the film so powerfully engaging for me.  Emotional crises are big and splashy.  It's probably what I love most about PTA's "Feels Trilogy" (BN, Mag, PDL): the emotional resonance we have with all of those sweet, broken characters.  I deeply appreciate the films that came after PDL, but I don't love them they way I do those 3 films.  (Although Thread was a slight return towards that feeling.) 

Do we agree that Magnolia & Inherent Vice are his two most polarizing films?  Do they share qualities that makes them so?
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: jenkins on March 05, 2020, 01:27:18 PM
there isn't evidence that supports the theory of the high school movie as a retooling of Magnolia
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: wilberfan on March 05, 2020, 02:00:27 PM
Absolutely not.  But the mind of a Magnolia lover easily goes there.  I think the odds are--given his growth as a filmmaker--it won't go there at all. 
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Freddie Dodd on March 05, 2020, 02:19:21 PM
Quote from: eward on March 04, 2020, 07:14:47 PM
Quote from: Freddie Dodd on March 04, 2020, 06:33:51 PM
On twitter there was some fans of Anderson who seem to think it's aged horribly and a mark of an immature artist.

Twitter ruins everything. Ridiculous to take aim at Maggie and not, say, Boogie Nights, too, if we're crying "immature."

Some of that crowd don't particularly care for Boogie Nights either, it's just Magnolia had a grandiose sense of style that makes it  more alienating. Boogie Nights flashiness fits the story to a tee, exploring the stylish pornography world that is very seducing, which Anderson conveys so well in the picture, even if much of it is just as jack-off showmanship as Magnolia. My big issue with the latter picture is the screenplay, with cringe dialogue and scenes as Dixon going nowhere without the father scene being shown in the final cut. The acting aside from Moore and Cruise is pretty solid given the weakness of the script.  I'm never sure how Melora Walters did not gain award attraction instead of Cruise, or how she didn't gain a bigger and better career in the midst of the film. Just raw and honest emotions bursting through the screen.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: wilberfan on March 05, 2020, 02:37:51 PM
Quote from: Freddie Dodd on March 05, 2020, 02:19:21 PM
I'm never sure how Melora Walters not gain award attraction instead of Cruise, or how she didn't gain a bigger and better career in the midst of the film. Just raw and honest emotions bursting through the screen.
Well, we can certainly agree on this.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Freddie Dodd on March 05, 2020, 03:09:37 PM
Whatever faults happen with the contrived third act(we'll not go deep on that...), that last few minutes of Walters is just heartbreaking. On the level of a Falconetti.


Btw, I was unaware Walters was just 39 when shooting the film. That character reads and is written as late 20's.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Tdog on March 05, 2020, 03:32:22 PM
Quote from: eward on March 05, 2020, 12:50:19 PM
"Too emotionally saturate", it's a big splashy melodrama!

That's what my buddy said. I love the movie! I think it's perfect! The last time I watched it was about 5 years ago, I was having a recover day after an awful experience aith edibles the night before; I watched Magnolia back to back with There Will Be Blood (with some Chinese takeaway in between movies). Great viewing experience, comfort food movies with comfort food.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: ©brad on March 05, 2020, 03:44:30 PM
I think for my own mental health I'm going to steer clear of this thread. You kids have fun!
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: putneyswipe on March 06, 2020, 09:25:40 PM
The first ten minutes of magnolia is the greatest filmmaking he's ever done.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: wilberfan on March 06, 2020, 09:43:57 PM
Quote from: putneyswipe on March 06, 2020, 09:25:40 PM
The first ten minutes of magnolia is the greatest filmmaking he's ever done.


It's the sequence that made me sit up straight in my seat and announce to the nearly empty weekday afternoon cineplex auditorium, "WHO IS THIS GUY?!"  It's literally the moment I became a PTA fan.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Robyn on March 07, 2020, 08:08:25 AM
Quote from: putneyswipe on March 06, 2020, 09:25:40 PM
The first ten minutes of magnolia is the greatest filmmaking he's ever done.

You such a frog.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: putneyswipe on March 11, 2020, 04:37:57 AM
Quote from: Robyn on March 07, 2020, 08:08:25 AM
Quote from: putneyswipe on March 06, 2020, 09:25:40 PM
The first ten minutes of magnolia is the greatest filmmaking he’s ever done.

You such a frog.

"We are all connected"
"Strange coincidences happen all the time"

I know its freshman stuff, as David Foster Wallace once said, but it's true...
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: ForTheHungryBoy on March 12, 2020, 09:22:29 PM
Quote from: wilberfan on March 04, 2020, 03:57:09 PM
This just brought something to mind.  I have literally watched every known PTA effort more than one time with ONE exeption:  Junun.   Not particularly because I found it boring (there were parts I found rather interesting--although don't ask me to name them now).

For the Uber-PTA fans here, are there ANY projects of his you've only seen once?  And/or have no interest in revisiting?  (We can make this a separate topic, if need be.)
I hate to admit it, but I've finished Boogie Nights once (and in parts). For some reason I don't get inspired by the style, Mark, and the 'fullness' of it all. I much more prefer the more natural obtuse recent films

Also, I caught Junun at Alamo in Brooklyn. PTA, Jonny, & Co. were there for a Q&A and the band performed (and I saw Radiohead at MSG that weekend). So I certainly couldn't have had a better first viewing experience  :)
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Drill on October 03, 2020, 03:20:14 PM
Bumping this for more unpopular opinions:
1.) I hope Soggy Bottom is not the title of the new film. Most people here seem to like it so I guess that's an unpopular take.
2.) The first music video he ever did is still by some distance his best. Probably because I think it's the best song he's done a video for.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hox7UOaQffI
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Fuzzy Dunlop on October 03, 2020, 03:53:02 PM
Quote from: Drill on October 03, 2020, 03:20:14 PM
2.) The first music video he ever did is still by some distance his best. Probably because I think it's the best song he's done a video for.

Including ANIMA or is that it's own thing?
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Drill on October 03, 2020, 04:17:02 PM
Quote from: Fuzzy Dunlop on October 03, 2020, 03:53:02 PM
Quote from: Drill on October 03, 2020, 03:20:14 PM
2.) The first music video he ever did is still by some distance his best. Probably because I think it's the best song he's done a video for.

Including ANIMA or is that it's own thing?

Including. Anima felt more Thom Yorke than PTA. In hindsight, I'm surprised he didn't get a co-directing credit when Danielle Haim did.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Rooty Poots on October 03, 2020, 04:44:22 PM
Quote from: Drill on October 03, 2020, 03:20:14 PM
1.) I hope Soggy Bottom is not the title of the new film. Most people here seem to like it so I guess that's an unpopular take.

I have mixed feelings on the name Soggy Bottom. On the one hand, there's the strong association with the Coen Brothers so it's almost like if he named it Crazy 88 or something. On the other hand, it's silly sounding and I like it better than the other rumored name which is atrocious.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Drill on October 03, 2020, 04:55:08 PM
Quote from: Rooty Poots on October 03, 2020, 04:44:22 PM
Quote from: Drill on October 03, 2020, 03:20:14 PM
1.) I hope Soggy Bottom is not the title of the new film. Most people here seem to like it so I guess that's an unpopular take.

I have mixed feelings on the name Soggy Bottom. On the one hand, there's the strong association with the Coen Brothers so it's almost like if he named it Crazy 88 or something. On the other hand, it's silly sounding and I like it better than the other rumored name which is atrocious.

I basically agree with that. It seems too close to the Coens, especially after the constant IV/Lebowski comparisons. I think I'm a little bored of the 2-word titles as well.

I think that other title is bullshit. Not sure why that appeared on the IMDb page.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: kingfan011 on October 03, 2020, 04:58:28 PM
Paper Bag is still my favorite Anderson music video and one of my favorite things by him period.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Drill on October 03, 2020, 05:15:10 PM
I would've liked that video more if I liked the song. That must be my big issue with his MV work. The songs themselves. I guess these art-pop women are his Hitchcock Blondes. But Apple, Newsom, et. al are just boneless Kate Bush-es (wonder if he's a big fan) to me.

The Sapokanikan video did make me very curious about him doing a NYC-set film.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: polkablues on October 03, 2020, 05:50:11 PM
Quote from: kingfan011 on October 03, 2020, 04:58:28 PM
Paper Bag is still my favorite Anderson music video and one of my favorite things by him period.

Couldn't agree more.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: kingfan011 on October 04, 2020, 03:02:48 PM
Quote from: Drill on October 03, 2020, 05:15:10 PM
I would've liked that video more if I liked the song. That must be my big issue with his MV work. The songs themselves. I guess these art-pop women are his Hitchcock Blondes. But Apple, Newsom, et. al are just boneless Kate Bush-es (wonder if he's a big fan) to me.

The Sapokanikan video did make me very curious about him doing a NYC-set film.

I sort of half agree with this. His infatuation with Newsom and Haim and their music I don't get. Newsom just baffles me and I have tried to like HAIM several time and I just can't get it.

On the other hand I completely get his love of Fiona Apple. While I found Fetch The Bolt Cutters way too low fi her first 4 albums I think are fantastic.

By the way I was browsing over the last few pages and I missed where you guys were discussing the weird vibes between DDL and Anderson during the PT press tour. I noticed that too in videos. I actually was sort of wondering if anything would come up in those Phantom Thread lighting master class but nothing did except where apparently DDL was pissed off about the mother hallucination scene and chewed Anderson out the next day.

Then again nobody had any idea that he and Elswitt fell out and ended their relationship on IV until Elswit directly mentioned it.
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Drenk on October 04, 2020, 03:23:15 PM
Joanna Newsom is a musical legend and shouldn't be compared to the Haims in the same sentence. :yabbse-grin:

Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Alethia on October 04, 2020, 04:44:08 PM
^^ 100%
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Drill on October 04, 2020, 05:43:02 PM
I find Apple the most boring. :yabbse-grin: Sorry, I know she's got a lot of fans here. I guess what many people praise as "raw" and "personal", I see as mannered and tediously narcissistic.

Newsom's music isn't my thing at all but she can play and write circles around Apple. And I really liked her in IV. Maybe the new film will warm me to Haim (I'm assuming at this point that all of them are in it at some capacity).   
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: ElPandaRoyal on October 06, 2020, 02:42:02 AM
I actually like Haim's Summer Girl and Night So Long (Live At The Greek), both songs and videos. Quite different from each other but they work for me. Apart from that, I really don't understand the band's appeal. Some of the songs are plain bad.

I also don't understand how one can not love everything about Paper Bag. Great song, great video, and great Fiona on a lovely red dress  :yabbse-grin:
Title: Re: Unpopular PTA opinions
Post by: Convael on October 08, 2020, 06:33:55 PM
Call me a simpleton but I think he peaked with TWBB and each of his movies has gotten progressively worse since then, in terms of having characters and a compelling story that you care about. Obviously his films are all technically basically perfect and he has the best crew you can find. You could sit around thinking about The Master and its connections to history, how characters mirror one another, and a bunch of other intellectual exercises, but that doesn't make it a good film and doesn't change the fact that it all just feels false and sort of boils down to nothing. You can do these things also with any of Kubrick's or Hitchcock's films, but on their surface level they're still good films that people can enjoy. I actually thought that the first draft of The Master that leaked back in 2010 or whenever it was would have made a fucking amazing movie. Ebert IMO had the best review of The Master when it came out: https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/the-master-2012

I agree with others who said that the Haim videos are nothing special and would hardly be noticed if they were by a different director. His music videos during the Boogie Nights/Magnolia era were so joyous and you could tell that the person making them was so excited about what the camera was doing and how things could be experimented with.

Magnolia has the most heart of any movie I've ever seen. I rank it with Blue Valentine, Vitorio De Sica's films, Truffaut's films, Make Way for Tomorrow, and a bunch of others that have tons of heart and emotion, but think it's the absolute best. I didn't realize this opinion could be considered unpopular until reading this thread...