a film: The Brothers Bloom [2008]

all post photos from the same source

I feel like, for a long while, only about ten of us in the world had seen this brilliant film. That's less of the case now, but I still feel it isn't terribly common. Which is surprising, give the actors cast in it and its sheer brilliance. But, alas, it is a favorite of mine. Without fail, each time I watch this film, two things always happen: one: being I consider how thrilling it would be if I were a con-artist [not glorifying con-men, settle down!] and two: that I should blow all my saving and have an adventure story around the world. I have yet to do either, but never say never!

Needless to say, if you haven't watched The Brothers Bloom yet, do so soon. It's another one of those films that is all around brilliantly done. The story is about a con atrist team, two brothers [Adrien Brody and Mark Ruffalo] and their partner [Rinko Kikuchi], who decide to preform their last con job... involving none other than a rich heiress [Rachel Weisz]. The storyline is incredibly unique and the dialogue is perfectly witty [it's a comedy]. The soundtrack and cinematography are flawless and all the various scenery is beautiful. The wardrobe has to be one of my favorite parts though.

Each of the characters are impeccably dressed; all classic and simple. There are gorgeous suits, coats and capes, waistcoats, crisp white shirts, simple dresses, menswear for women, stripes, boots, ties, scarves, sunglasses and hats. And above all there is Penelope's gorgeous leopard print coat that I would die for. The wardrobe [scenery and set, for that matter] give the film a vintage feel; like it would take place in the 1920's or 30's, not in present time. In the sense that it's all very old school, back how con-men would have operated then, not now. It's a detail that certainly adds to the film, contributing largely to making it stand out above 'adventure-con-men' stories you would see in most modern set films today. It's quite incredible, almost so that it is difficult to describe it's unique-ness. Watch it, multiple times so you can catch all the beautiful elements to it. The music, both actual songs and the created scores. The wardrobe, the staggering details in its nostalgic simplicity. The cinematograph, the beautiful settings, places and detail shots of the props and surroundings. The dialogue, for some of the wittiest lines and jokes. I could genuinely go on and on. It's another one of those films that I would crawl into the TV [reverse Ring style] and live in.

As far as con man stories go, I think I've heard them all. Of grifters, ropers, faro-fixers; tails drawn long and tall. But if one bears a bookmark in the confidence man's tome, it would be that of Penelope, and of the brothers Bloom. -Narrator.

Have you seen the film? Did you enjoy it as much as I did? If you end up watching it, please let me know what you think. I'd love to hear all of your thoughts on it; newly watching or if it's an old favorite.

I stuck some more images behind the cut. I had 76 in the folder, and managed to get the number down significantly smaller, yet not small enough. I have such a love for the film that I wanted to share all my favorites with you. They are all of the films wardrobe, watch it to witness the rest of its beauty.

Enjoy! xx.

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