There have been some cold, snowy, and dark days lately and the world feels like it’s being run into the ground by criminal idiots. It’s the perfect time to watch something… but what? Great news! Otis has the answer! This week, we revisit a modern classic from the talented and influential filmmaking duo Joel and Ethan Coen. It’s time to discuss the 1996 black comedy crime film “Fargo” starring Frances McDormand, William H. Macy, Steve Buscemi, and Peter Stormare. Oh, you betcha!
Directed by Joel and written by both Ethan and Joel Coen, this critical darling and modern classic honed in on what the brothers do best and refined their formula for the masses. In many ways, it (like the films of many other filmmakers in the 90s) helped usher in the world of movies we know and love today. “Fargo” is a hilariously dark, twisted, and quaint comedy of tragic errors and stupid people getting caught beyond their depth. Plus, there's explosive violence and funny accents! What more could you want? With excellent and nuanced performances from all the leads, cinematography from the G.O.A.T. Roger Deakins, music from frequent collaborator Carter Burwell, a near-perfect runtime and pacing, and moments of genuine deadpan absurdity that will make you laugh out loud… what more is there to say?
In this episode, we discuss all the great things about this film and why it exemplifies the Coen brothers’ formula. We also praise the performances (specifically William H. Macy and Frances McDormand), the characterization, the comedy, the pacing, and the excellent writing. We break down some of our favourite scenes, lines, and shots while also discussing the impact of this movie and its critical reception. We basically gush about this movie and the Coen brothers for an hour and a half because they rule. We also briefly discuss the brothers’ filmography, how this movie stacks up against their other films and the more recent and wildly successful “Fargo” TV show from Noah Hawley. Don’t like “Fargo’? Too bad. It rips. Plus, a little update on what we’ve got going on and a discussion about the world feeling a lot like the upside-down right now.
We’ll see you next week!
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