Fences (2016)

User Review

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  TheMovieDiorama

  7 / 10

  Fences faithfully adapts the Pulitzer-prize winning play but lacks cinematic edge. It's very difficult to manage expectations when the talent on and off screen is immeasurable. Washington acting and directing, Davis, Wilson's original drafted screenplay and loyally abiding to Wilson's last wishes by utilising an all African-American cast. For the most part, this drama succeeds. An old-school family's trust is broken when the husband admits to being unfaithful. What follows is an almost Shakespearean American drama that is fuelled by values and traditions. On paper, these characters are formidable forces. Proud individuals who hold the utmost respect for themselves, yet their lives are far from the idyllic dreams that they once had. The son has the same aspirations as the father, yet due to his failed ventures he refuses to let his son follow the same doomed path. Insinuating that racism played a fundamental role to his demise, he attempts to manipulate his son into thinking the same. It's a harsh family environment where the members are constantly treading carefully, fortunately Wilson's screenplay conveys the tension eloquently. The first act is a tidal wave of dialogue that allows Washington and Davis to establish their prominence. The latter being incredible, particularly during the snot-filled scene where she exclaims "Well I've been standing here with you!". Immediately I was stricken with goosebumps. Washington's directing style was simple as he ensures the screenplay is at the forefront. However, the major issue I have with this unabridged conversion of the play is that it has no cinematic style. It's as if I was watching the play, yet because Washington attempted to adapt this cinematically he consequently loses the theatrical intensity. Thus I struggled to remain compelled through certain scenes. So much dialogue and acting that it just doesn't settle, it lacked that emotional involvement. Fences is an incredibly intimidating film, wonderfully written and acted but occasionally disinteresting. I just wanted something more from this...

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