"Closer"

Starring Julia Roberts, Jude Law, Natalie Portman and Clive Owen. Directed by Mike Nichols. (2004, Columbia Pictures)

"Closer" doesn't inspire much confidence in relationships. It's an issue everyone will deal with at some point in their life and something that nobody will ever clearly understand. Why do people cheat? Why do people lie? Why fall in love to begin with? 'Closer" doesn't paint a great picture for the sanctuary of love, but it's a frighteningly realistic portrayal of the topic. It's edgy, raw, brutal, comical and without remorse giving us four characters who lust, hurt and betray their way through relationships playing with each other's heart like it's a toy.

The foursome of this story focuses on Dan (Jude Law), an aspiring writer who meets a young woman Alice (Natalie Portman) and instantly falls in love. Months later, they encounter photographer Anna (Julia Roberts) who Dan becomes mesmerised with. Then there's Larry (Clive Owen) who is brought into the love triangle as a patsy but soon becomes entangled in the games. Alice is with Dan who wants Anna who marries Larry but lusts for Dan. Ah, love is a complicated thing. These characters become intertwined in mind games as they each hurt and destroy each other, but still can't live without one another.

Mike Nichols' is one of the finest directors around but he took a brave turn trying a topic that he probably doesn't know too much about for today's generations. The decision to shoot the movie in damp London helps accentuate the disparity of his characters and the pacing of the film is smooth and not as confusing as it could have been in a less competent director. The screenplay by Patrick Marber is deliciously cynical, sarcastic and honest. Based on his play, the film does sometimes seem to be a little too theatrical and many scenes are long-drawn out like a play, but the script is capped with some terrific moments and delivered with exceptional performances.

The awesome foursome cast are exactly that - awesome. This is acting at its strongest from everyone. Julia Roberts has the iciest role but it's refreshing to watch her play a role that is against her usual fluffy romantic comedies. Many didn't take much notice in her performance but it's because she is slowly becoming such a greater actress that it's not noticeable. Jude Law has been on a roll lately, but this is his best performance in years and his character is the worst portrayed of the foursome. Natalie Portman has an underwritten role and her character's motivations at times seems murkier than the rest but the performance is perfect. Clive Owen's the bigger surprise because he hasn't shown any great range previously, but this role is sensational. Together, this cast contribute one of the strongest ensembles of the year, every performance is pitch perfect.

'Closer' won't appeal to everyone because it's a little too dark and depressing for its own good. It doesn't finish with a happy ending because life isn't about that. It's not overly melodramatic, it's what it is - a film about relationships. In the hands of seasoned pro Mike Nichols, a wonderfully perceptive screenplay and tremendous performances, this is a fascinating and frank look at life.


out of ten

Reviewed by Chris Cappola

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