Black Snake Moan

Six or seven years ago Premiere Magazine asked Martin Scorsese what filmmaker working today he thought most resembled his work. His answer was Wes Anderson. Hard to disagree with his choice but I would argue that Craig Brewer, writer/director of Hustle & Flow and now with Black Snake Moan, more resembles Scorsese (especially his earlier films). Brewer perfectly captures a part of the south the same way Scorsese perfectly captured New York and both directors use music in a way that captures the thoughts and feelings of their characters.

To try and summarize the plot would be impossible. Part of the fun is seeing the characters in these ridiculous situations, then seeing what happens next. You may think you have figured out where the plot will go, but trust me, you will more than likely be wrong.

The film could also contain Samuel L. Jackson's best performance. I'm racking my brain to think of a time he has ever been better (he's always good) and can't come up with anything. He disappears into the character. But every performance rings true, from Christina Ricci and Justin Timberlake down to the smallest of roles.

I'm not sure if the amount of admiration I have for this movie is coming through in this review. I was elated when I left the theater, thinking of turning around and watching the next screening too. It's a great and strange film.

Notes:

The movie starts with footage of an interview with Son House talking about the blues. Later in the movie the interview shows back up to set up the rest of the film. It is nothing short of brilliant.

There is a scene between Jackson and Ricci set during a thunderstorm. I don't want to give away anything else but the whole thing is amazing.