Jun 23, 20221 min read

The Great Gatsby: Excessive Filmmaking

Updated: Feb 27, 2023

Reviews by:

@augustkellerwrites

RATE THIS MOVIE

The Great Gatsby opposes itself. Luhrmann's aggressive style is respectable but overshadows the human elements. It's a classic story, driven by emotions and themes. Unfortunately, that's often lost in this adaptation. Viewers may grasp why the novel is revered, but the film inconsistently conveys that. Specifically, Gatsby isn't sympathetic enough. His motivations are clear, but his vulnerability isn't fully developed. Gatsby's tragedy fuels the story and that doesn't connect here, muting emotional reactions. DiCaprio elevates his material (as does the entire cast), but despite the strong performances and iconic source, The Great Gatsby feels dramatically thin.

Technically, The Great Gatsby is proactive yet incongruent. Its rapid editing utilizes superimpositions, the sound builds symbolic ambiance, and its intense visuals employ pronounced movement. Plus, the production design reflects the opulent era. However, these efforts rarely support the emotional core. Although The Great Gatsby involves extreme wealth, it critiques that excess. So, while these techniques are admirable, their overdone nature is antithetical to the themes. This is most apparent in the unnecessary effects and modern music, which foster artificial atmospheres and hinder immersion. Ultimately, more subdued, relatable moments would've served The Great Gatsby well.

Writing: 7/10

Direction: 6/10

Cinematography: 9/10

Acting: 9/10

Editing: 8/10

Sound: 9/10

Score/Soundtrack: 5/10

Production Design: 8/10

Casting: 9/10

Effects: 6/10

Overall Score: 7.6/10

By @augustkellerwrites