Cosmopolis Review: The film is hot! 4 out of 5 points and hat's off to Robert Pattinson's performance!

Cosmopolis Review: The film is hot! 4 out of 5 points and hat's off to Robert Pattinson's performance!

Clemenceau reviewed Cosmopolis for his Weekly Web Magazine. It's in french but here's the translation

Last movie I saw this week, Cosmopolis by David Cronenberg.
The story: It's one day in the life of Eric Packer, golden boy in need of a haircut when things go off the deep end.
I loved it! Hats off to Robert Pattinson's performance, who's really good. And I wasn't a big fan before.
It has everything we like: money, sex, death, desire, power, war and goat cheese.
The film is hot and the dialogues are completely crazy. The dialogues are from Don DeLillo's novel, seeing as the movie is an adaptation of his book.
Last thing is Mathieu Amalric's acting (I'm a big fan) and Juliette Binoche who are in the movie and simply amazing.
I gave it 4 out of 5 points. It's a really great movie that I warmly recommend.

From his comment, I love goat cheese, sex, desire and money...not in that order. But I also know I'll LOVE Cosmopolis. :) Review starts at 2:27



Translation: Source

Cosmopolis Review: 5 out of 5 stars and Robert Pattinson talks working with Cronenberg again!

Cosmopolis Review: 5 out of 5 stars and Robert Pattinson talks working with Cronenberg again!

UPDATE: The interview is up now HERE. SUCH a good read :D



You know the drill about Google translations but we DO know that Les In Rocks gave Cosmopolis 5 out of 5 stars. No translation needed for that. ;) Additionally, there is much talk about Rob's interview in the actual magazine. Marnye translated an excerpt from the interview via Smurfette:

Excerpt from the Les Inrocks intvw: He says he's going to make a movie about The Band, "a wonderful script about songwriting"; a thriller with a beautiful script but without director so far, several French directors are in line for the job. He confirms another film with Cronenberg but doesn't know when shooting will start, it will be Cronenberg's first American movie, and should be very strange.

How exciting that Rob has all these projects lined up? And with Viggo shaking Rob's hand inside the On The Road premiere theater, maybe that Cronenberg film is the one we posted about HERE. Seems likely, right? We'll see what the full interview tells us.

On to the perfect Cosmopolis review. French speakers, click HERE to read the original.
Translation after the cut!

Click HERE to read the rest

Cosmopolis Review: 4 out of 5 stars, Robert Pattinson has "merit and charm...he is perfect"

Cosmopolis Review: 4 out of 5 stars, Robert Pattinson has "merit and charm...he is perfect"

This is a Google translation for now and it's from 2 articles in Le Nouvel Observateur. I'll excerpt key parts and put the full translation after the cut.

• The film received 4 out of 5 stars noted on Allocine HERE.
• [Robert] is perfect: annoying, arrogant, talkative and charming.
• Robert Pattinson has merit. And charm. Adding that the car is pleasant, with soft lighting and bar in digital gadgets.
• [Cosmopolis is] puzzling, annoying, surprising, exciting.
• [David Cronenberg's] film is like no other, is a signature elegance, its willingness to move away from Hollywood is constant.
• Cosmopolis is the lament of the crisis.

French speakers: Click HERE for the the Cosmopolis review and HERE for the Rob portion of the review.

Full translation after the cut

Click HERE to read the rest

"Charming and Gorgeous" Robert Pattinson mentioned on French TV & Cosmopolis review receives 4 stars from Russian publication

"Charming and Gorgeous" Robert Pattinson mentioned on French TV & Cosmopolis review receives 4 stars from Russian publication

UPDATE: One of our readers, Christine, sent in the Russian translation of the Cosmopolis review in June issue of Phychologies below :) Thanks Christine!

Cronenberg’s latest films from the point of view of thought and influence could not compare with his “Crash” “Fly” and “Dead Zone” but in Cosmopolis the “action Psychologist” shows his previous might. In the screen adaptation of the novel by Don DeLillo-a post modernist novelist (or American umberto eco) he creates the image of modern world- the world with every technological comfort but which is full of violence. Protesting against universal functionality/purposefulness is a young billionaire-never leaving Manhattan, in just 24 hours he loses all his material and social assets and acquires a real “self”. And wonderful actor -Pattinson, whose talent showed even playing a young vampire, creates the image of a whole generation of baby boom children-young people feeling they should be billionaires just by the right of birth in the environment of “Golden Billion”. Cosmopolis- , expressive, gloomy/impenetrable without illusions -it mostly reminds us of Edvard Munch’s painting "The Scream” and you should agree that not often do we feel like comparing modern films with real pieces of art.

Christine also notes that the ranking of 4 stars is the maximum and the translation says this level equaled "brilliant". :))))

Cosmopolis and Rob were enthused about on French TV. From the translation, it sounds like the host saw the film and loved it.

UPDATE: YouTube added. Thanks veronicaspuffy!






Translation starting at 2:10:

She’s talking about Cosmopolis, a film which is highly expected. It’s from David Cronenberg. The film is awesome and it’s impossible to explain the book’s storyline. It’s just art. She can say exactly what it’s about.
She finally said that it’s set in New York and we have future and past moments. It’s about a golden boy’s fall out and he’s foreseeing his own murder. It’s very confusing. The trailer is so gorgeous she absolutely wanted to talk about it. There’s a lot of stars in it and there’s the gorgeous and charming Robert Pattinson. He’s from the Twilight Saga.
What’s surprising is the rating of the film because there’s a lot of sex in it.

Cosmopolis was also reviewed in a Russian publication and we have an excerpt from that as well as the ranking...4 stars!

Wonderful actor Pattinson creates an image of the entire generation…Cosmopolis is impenetrable and expressive.

I believe the source will translate the rest tomorrow but thought the excerpt was great to share now. If you understand Russian, click the thumbnail and enjoy :) NOTE: The full translation is at the top of the post.

Russian review of Cosmopolis


Video & Translation:  Ptiteaurel via SpunkRansom & Source | Russian article & Translation excerpt: AdeleStew

Review quotes about Robert Pattinson in Cosmopolis: "Pattinson is mind-blowing"

Review quotes about Robert Pattinson in Cosmopolis: "Pattinson is mind-blowing"

This is fan-freakin'-tastic. Soundbites from an ad for Cosmopolis in Le Monde (French).



Translation:

An actor is born - Télérama.

Unsettling - Studio Ciné Live

Pattinson is mind-blowing - Positif

Cronenberg chose Pattinson. A brilliant idea on both counts. - Les Inrockuptibles

Robert Pattinson revels a depth more and more fascinating. - Première

Is your heart swelling? I got all ProudMamaSteph reading those quotes.



Scan: Source | Translation: Source

Review of Robert Pattinson's Cosmopolis - Notes he is perfect as Eric Packer

Review of Robert Pattinson's Cosmopolis - Notes he is perfect as Eric Packer

UPDATE: Added another translation to the post from Alt Film Guide:

An early Cosmopolis review has come out via Studio Ciné Live‘s Fabrice Leclerc. Directed by the iconoclastic David Cronenberg, who adapted Don DeLillo’s novel, and starring Robert Pattinson, Cosmopolis is definitely one of the most eagerly anticipated films at the Cannes Film Festival 2012.

The headline of Leclerc’s brief, three-star (out of five) Cosmopolis review reads: "A Cronenberg as brilliant as he is taut." Leclerc then begins his review by explaining that Cronenberg and DeLillo are "manufacturers of fantastic, unhealthy, and at times somber environments, of the science of language, and of totally chaotic characters. And of controversy as well."

Referring to Cosmopolis as a "ghostly and hypnotic" tale, Leclerc adds that Cronenberg had adapted to the letter DeLillo’s "ultrarich prose, filming with an incredible inventiveness this stifling and disturbing airtight environment."

As for Robert Pattinson, Leclerc says he’s "impeccable" until Cosmopolis‘ last segment, when, "lost in a verbal torrent," Pattinson "seems, all of a sudden, to be no longer in control."

Leclerc wraps up his review with the following: "As always with Cronenberg, there are no half-measures, no second gateway, no escape. Cosmopolis is to be experienced in full or not at all. Take it or leave it."

I would debate the reviewers issue of losing control at the end. That's actually what I would want to see from Eric Packer at the end. Can't wait to see this movie!



Studio Ciné Live (French) released a review of Cosmopolis. If you understand French, click the thumbnail at the bottom to read. We're going to need to get used to the translations, guys. Cannes will be producing tons of article and videos that will likely be dubbed and translated.

The reviewer gives the film 3 out of 5 stars and the main issue they had was Cronenberg's choice to stick with the author's text. They cite it works in some areas and felt it didn't in others. The review is also a bit shallow. A majority of the review is just a summary of the movie.

I personally like what I've seen in the clips. It's like we're watching a play. I like the the unique cadence since this is a unique day. It's going to be interesting to see how people respond that have never read the book.

Translation:

A Cronenberg as brilliant as he is firm.

Each in their own genre, David Cronenberg and Don DeLillo are silversmiths of fantastic, unhealthy and sometimes dark atmospheres. As well as of the science of language and characters in shambles and - let's not forget - of controversy.
 
It's then pretty obvious that one would end up adaptation the other's work. Cosmopolis is the ghostly and hypnotic story of a day in the life of a golden boy who is about to lose his empire because of the crisis, indifferent to the world that surrounds him. He's hypochondriac and schizophrenic. His long journey across a chaotic New York, rythmed by meetings with his wife, his mistresses and his employees, will lead him to a point of no return. In a perfect balanced cinematic movement, David Cronenberg decided to adapt to the letter the extremely rich prose of Don DeLillo. He filmed with an incredible ingenuity this stifling and unsettling closed-door.
 
This preconception to stay faithful to the text of the author is amazing but not without any danger. Especially in the last part of the film, where one could definitely get lost in a verbal flood that becomes complex for the viewer and for Robert Pattinson - who was perfect until then - but seems, all of the sudden, to lose control.

As always with Cronenberg, there's no in between, no second place, no way out. Cosmopolis gets appreciated at full or not at all. Take it or leave it.

Click to read the French version


Source | Translation: Source via

Positive reactions for Robert Pattinson and Cosmopolis continue

Positive reactions for Robert Pattinson and Cosmopolis continue



The Cosmopolis poster was analyzed and Rob's top billing was noted. An excerpt from Slant Magazine:

"Pattinson. Cronenberg. Cosmopolis." There's no question that allowing the heartthrob's surname to stand alone is a testament to his proven abilities as a major box-office draw, but this image also reflects the first time Pattinson has been taken as seriously by an auteur as he is by legions of unwavering fans. That Pattinson and Cronenberg are getting equal billing speaks volumes about the director's confidence in his star, and it pretty much cements this 25-year-old as having the finest post-Twilight career of the mega-brand's insta-celebs. It's a lot more telling, for instance, than Cosmopolis being voted "must-see movie of the year" on MTV.com, whose readers probably didn't look far past that stubbled jawline. What's surely more enticing for a different set of viewers is the eclectic international cast whose names line the bottom: Juliette Binoche. Mathieu Almaric. Samantha Morton. Paul Giamatti. Pattinson has found himself in some truly ace company, and the film's test, beyond adapting a novel that wasn't so well received, will be proving that this actor has mustered the chops to lead it.

Cosmopolis was also named 'Poster of the Week' by Total Film:



The teaser continues to receive positive feedback as well. :)

Flix66:

Although I spew a lot of Twilight hate in my news posts, I’m actually rooting for Robert Pattinson to break out of the Edward mold and have a successful career.  I thought WATER FOR ELEPHANTS was going to be the film that proved Robert Pattinson was more than just a brooding vampire, but it underwhelmed and so now I’m left hoping COSMOPOLIS will be that film.  I, like the rest of the planet, was extremely impressed with the short teaser trailer we saw last week and if that 1 minute montage is any indication, Robert Pattinson nails this part and definitely grows up as an actor.
...
I can’t say I’m always a fan of David Cronenberg, but I love the idea of him and Pattinson teaming up for a film.  Cronenberg is exactly what Robert Pattinson needs at this point in his career.
...
Hopefully, the right company will get behind this and maybe Robert Pattinson can get some awards recognition.

 Cinema Blend:

If you're like us then your jaw has been on the floor since the first teaser trailer for David Cronenberg's Cosmopolis dropped one week ago. In addition to showing us a very different Robert Pattinson than the one we've gotten to know in the Twilight movies, the preview also showed us that this could be the film that brings Cronenberg back to his roots. We're eagerly anticipating the feature length trailer, which, sadly, we probably won't see for a while, but for now we have four brand new stills from the movie.

Grizzly Bomb:

For those of you doubting the strength of Robert Pattinson as an actor, just shut up. Seriously, just shut up already. The guy did the nearly impossible – He escaped the Twilight persona. Robert Pattinson is an extremely talented young actor with an already eclectic resume and disgustingly bright future ahead of him. And I’m not just saying this because I love Twilight, which I don’t. I’m saying it because the difference between him and Taylor Lautner is that Pattinson actually understands the meaning of emotion and facial expression. If you’re still skeptical, check out the teaser trailer below. Cosmopolis also stars Paul Giamatti, Samantha Morton, Jay Baruchel, Kevin Durand, and Juliette Binoche, AKA, the best cast I’ve seen this year thus far.

Sound + Vision/translation via:

COSMOPOLIS – THE TEASER OF THE YEAR an noticeably awaited film, an avant la lettre cult object, that gathers Don DeLillo, Robert Pattinson, producer Paulo Branco and, last but not least, director David Cronenberg. We already have our release date, poster and a brief and genius teaser that exists as itself as a contagious 30 seconds film – if nobody has invented the teaser of the year’s award this is surely the time to do so.”

Screen Rant:

The most recent addition to Pattinson’s indie resume is a film that truly deserves to be labeled “edgy” and “risque”: David Cronenberg’s Cosmopolis.

Movieland:

Many are not quite sure if Pattinson can tear himself away from that image but you can put all those doubts to rest, because a short teaser for the upcoming movie Cosmopolis is here, and it looks amazing.

Best Movies Ever:

The international teaser trailer has hit below, and it packs quite a nice punch and makes you want to see the full trailer. When I heard he was on this film, naturally I thought nothing more of it, but after seeing the film and this teaser, I can say, you’ll look at Pattinson with some real acting respect. It’s nice when you’re lowered expectations are suddenly raised like that.

Moviepilot:

The Wild And Wonderful Teasing Teaser For 'Cosmopolis'... Robert Pattinson is so over exposed that we can't help but feeling like we know him, really know him. Today we're here to tell you to forget everything we and you think about him. Because the first teaser for David Cronenberg's Cosmopolis will blow your mind.

Total Film:

The teaser looks every bit as scuzzily weird as we’ve come to expect from Cronenberg, with Pattinson clearly relishing the opportunity to play a more engaging character than that afforded him by TheTwilight Saga.

Cinevue:

The trailer seems to have taken some inspiration from the work of French enfant terrible Gaspar Noè, featuring a pounding soundtrack, fizzing titles and flashes of some severely screwed-up imagery. Of all of Pattinson's post-Twilight roles, his latest turn as Cosmopolis' millionaire protagonist Eric Packer could be the one to finally establish himself as an actor to take seriously, shedding the romantic gloss for something a lot darker.

Collider:

As unfair as it is, I’m just as guilty as the next guy or gal of writing off Robert Pattinson in any role because he’s, well, Edward Cullen. In this NSFW international teaser trailer for David Cronenberg’s Cosmopolis adapation, though, Pattinson is far from a sparkly vampire with self-control issues. In fact, he kind of seems like a badass. Say what you will, but I think that a little Cronenberg gore and violence is exactly what the doctor ordered to help begin laying Cullen to rest.

Tweets have been endless with their support from writers, film buffs, fanboys, and even Tyler who worked on set.

From @Spliner_Durden/Tyler:

• #Cosmopolis will blow you all away, Rob is a gritty and real anti-hero! Rob was a champ! Cronenberg had him running and gunning take after take and he was up for it. Totally changed my opinion of him. 
• "@Claire_dlR: @Spilner_Durden :D Nice. Have you seen the teaser that was released last week?” YES! I'm 100 times more excited to see it now!
• @RobertDazzlesMe I honestly think, as with most Cronenberg films, this could be a sleeper hit with Oscar buzz, depends on how 'crazy' it is.
• “@noemiesornet: @Spilner_Durden Hi, what was your work on Cosmopolis ? :)” Locations Production Assistant for a shoot at The Opera House
• @Lynnee08 yeah I think Twilight gave a lot of people the wrong impression of him but Cosmopolis will be the film that truly makes his name.
• “@RobertDazzlesMe Do you think Cosmopolis could win at Cannes?" not only can but will! It will at least get great reviews from true experts.

 More highlights from the buzz on twitter:

• @HarryKolmer: Is it possible that I think a Robert Pattinson movie looks like it could be the best of the year? Damn right. #cosmoplis
• @Kay11thLetter Forgot to mention the trailer for Cosmopolis. Boy, that looks good. Pattinson looks actually brilliant. Giamatti in it as well. #imthere
• @mallaby David Cronenberg’s Cosmopolis looks incredible! I might actually go and see a Robert Pattinson movie
• @bretmeholick Cosmopolis trailer is out. I think this may kickstart the era of hypocritical men backtracking on Pattinson. "I always liked Rob!"-2014 man
• @nathanfisher SERIOUSLY Cronenberg's COSMOPOLIS teaser is even better than expected. R-Patz haters gonna get schooled
• @Jet_Strajker This could be the best Cronenberg since his masterpiece Crash. Pattinson seems to fit perfectly. It just raised my expectation. 
• @Bryanw702 That Robert Pattinson movie Cosmopolis looks badass!!
• @MattGoldberg Do you hear that? It's the sound of people changing their opinions of Robert Pattinson

I included mainly the male reactions because we know they've had....."issues" regarding Rob's talent.



They're signing a different tune now, Rob! :')

Via: CosmopolisFilm

The Film Stage reviews Bel Ami: Robert Pattinson is "intriguing", "more developed" & "completely embodies Duroy"

The Film Stage reviews Bel Ami: Robert Pattinson is "intriguing", "more developed" & "completely embodies Duroy"



The review started out with a summary of the film and this excerpt is the critique. From The Film Stage/Jack Cunliffe:

It is essentially a rags-to-riches story, but with the section of Duroy’s life that was spent in poverty left practically untouched. Instead, the film chooses to focus on his rise through the ranks of Parisian aristocracy, as he ruthlessly powers his way along. He uses his winning smile to attract women to him, and then sleeps with them, almost as something he must endure. One particularly uncomfortable scene sees him engaging in a sexual act with a pained anger on his face. The only thing he desires is power, but what he will do with that when he gets it is something that isn’t really explored.

There is a subplot involving complex political details, which is rather confusing, and detracts from the main story. The film is at its most absorbing when focusing on the flagrant exploits of Duroy, for at its core, Bel Ami is a character study. There are certainly many intricacies to the side-characters, but the essence lies in Duroy’s conflicted character and the way in which he goes about doing things. He is not an inherently vicious character, and does not do deliberately cruel things, but he certainly is amoral in many ways and Pattinson makes him all the more intriguing.

His performance is certainly a big step away from the world of Twilight. Here, he is more matured, more developed as an actor. He shows a diverse array of emotion, and completely embodies the character of Duroy. It must have been difficult to know how to play a character that is very hard to read, but Pattinson makes a valiant effort with a complex portrayal of shallowness.

In addition to the strong show from Pattinson, the rest of the cast is also effective. A special mention must go to Colm Meaney for his commanding performance as the proud, authoritative figure that also had a tender side. Also to Thurman, who depicts Madeleine’s cool, understanding character with a subtle and sincere portrayal. And given the intensity of the roles, it is impressive that none of the cast really takes anything over-the-top, something which would have lessened the impact of the film overall.

Considering it is set in Paris, the directors (Declan Donnellan and Nick Ormerod) could have ordered the actors to use French accents. Instead, they speak with English ones, and it is left to the imagination that they are speaking the native tongue. And this works, for had they used faux Parisian accents, it might have come off as unauthentic and showy. Bel Ami contains some stellar performances, meticulous art design and an absorbing atmosphere. It may be slightly underwhelming, but there is a certain poignancy to be found here, livening up what could have been a stale romantic tale.

Nice. :) A male critic (in the US!) that gave a constructive review and understood the story and character.

Another review for Bel Ami: "Robert Pattinson is clever casting"

Another review for Bel Ami: "Robert Pattinson is clever casting"



This review gave the film 4 out of 5 stars! Excerpt from Film & Television (UK): 

Robert Pattinson is clever casting. Here is his Twilight impassivity – weird, lucent-eyed, fixed of stare, sullenly magnetic – but Donnellan and Ormerod use it with sly craft. In early scenes this hero plays out ambition as if he has learnt it by rote; he seems to read even his love declarations from some invisible Autocue. Later he is all the more powerfully horrified and undone – we too, if identifying with him – when his ambitions start to play him. 

The women hold the cards or seem to. Uma Thurman is the rich society wife coquettishly declaiming her unattainability, Kristin Scott Thomas the brittle matron with reserves of passion and spite, Christina Ricci the cultivated, hothouse “innocent”. Nearly everyone founders in the end, including the women. The social protocol unravels and this belle époque, unmasked, turns out to be a hag in make-up. That is the moral here: be true and truthful, or be prepared for the cataclysm. The directors give the story a barbed conviction and the female players, especially, act to the hilt.

Click HERE to read the full review!

Thank you Sky & Claire!

Fantastic Review of Robert Pattinson's Bel Ami: Rob "exuding a scandalous charm"

Fantastic Review of Robert Pattinson's Bel Ami: Rob "exuding a scandalous charm"



LOVE this review from Film4 (UK). They gave the film 4 out of 5 stars!:

The term 'filthy rich' might be bandied about a lot, but in the nineteenth century it really meant something. The privileged classes were rotten with splendor and Guy de Maupassant's novel of sexual scandal and political corruption, Bel Ami, captured the various - err - comings and goings through the tale of a young man who uses sex as a weapon. It's fitting then that an adaptation has reared its head in a time when the eyes of the many are on the wealth of the few and it all seems relevant again, a century after the novel's publication. Directors Declan Donnellan and Nick Ormerod revel in bringing the decadence and debauchery to life and the film looks fantastic; muted pastel tones and elaborate, ornate sets bring fin-de-siecle Paris to life but it's the film's antihero star that really elevates the story above the usual bodice-ripping fare.


Robert Pattinson brings an air of menace to the character of Bel Ami, hungrily eyeing the women in his path and smearing Paris with his sleazy glances and threatening sexuality. He might be amoral and at times pretty loathsome but it's to Pattinson's credit that he keeps the smarm metered, exuding a scandalous charm that the ladies in his company swoon over. He's sort of like Heathcliff from Wuthering Heights, only hornier. Added to the mix are a triad of winsome belles played by Christina Ricci (a young romantic), Uma Thurman (a politically ambitious firebrand) and Kristin Scott Thomas (an insecure housewife). In particular Ricci looks the part with her coquettish eyes and porcelain skin but it's Scott Thomas who does an exemplary task of bringing the simpering naivety of Virginie to life. It is the way these four play together that ensures the film's dark nature unfolds in an engaging way, paying due reverence to Maupassant's source (although a slight tweak to its ending was a wise move).


But no matter how much the film seduces, it still smacks of directors who are holding back a little. Sex scenes are brief, fleeting and poorly edited despite an overall sensuality and there are moments of emotional tension that are prevented from lingering as long as they should. It's never enough to really tarnish the whole but, given the source, there's a little too much restraint. That said, the window into a society of sexually liberated (for their time) women and corrupt men, coupled with the playful way in which the directors tease out similarities with modern relationships all make for surprisingly good fun, despite the grim tone.

Verdict

A brooding tale of sex and scheming that is brought to life by its cast. More playful than you might expect, it's still a deliciously dark period piece that stays true to the tone of the novel.

Click HERE to catch up on more Bel Ami reviews! Click HERE to catch up on all things Bel Ami!

Thanks Sky & Claire!

Robert Pattinson's Bel Ami Clip in HD + Another Review: "Pattinson excels"

Robert Pattinson's Bel Ami Clip in HD + Another Review: "Pattinson excels"

We posted this clip before  but now it's in HD. And you MUST watch TuxedoDuRob in HD.



We have another great, constructive review for Bel Ami. Awesome compliments to Rob! Have a read and enjoy the gif from the above clip!



From Yahoo (UK):

Social-climbing, villainous backstabbing and a rapacious Robert Pattinson combine in this slow but well-crafted study of a desperate man in desperate times. 

The hype...
All eyes are on Robert Pattinson as he tries to break away from his 'Twilight' character Edward Cullen. He's had some success already, but the likes of 'Remember Me' and 'Water for Elephants' have hardly been classics. This is his darkest role to date, and it's sure to test his appeal, especially as most of his fans can't get into a 15-certificate film.

The story...
Georges Duroy (Robert Pattinson) is a down-on-his-luck army veteran living an aimless life in 1890s Paris. A chance encounter with a man he served with in Algeria leads to a dinner at the home of the Forestiers, where beautiful socialite Mrs Forestier (Uma Thurman) advises Georges on the best way to climb the social ladder: it's not the men of the city he needs to get to know, it's their wives.

Soon Georges is enjoying romances with Clotide (Christina Ricci) and Madame Rousset (Kristin Scott Thomas), and his career as a newspaper columnist takes off. When Mr Forestier falls gravely ill, Georges is on hand to comfort the soon-to-be widow, and in turn lines himself up for another fortune.

As Georges becomes consumed by jealousy and greed, he sets his sights on a younger target. Will that be enough to satisfy his desires? And how many people will be left behind in his wake?

The breakdown...
The film begins at a meandering pace where only occasional flourishes by the actors light up a dull and dreary tone in the movie. Debut directors Declan Donnellan and Nick Ormerod fail to add any drama in the early scenes, but once it hits its stride and George begins his manoeuvring up the food chain things rapidly improve - even if it feels somewhat rushed.

R-Pattz, as we believe the kids call him, is on fine form in this mature story about a man keen on using his charm and good looks to further his career as a journalist. Not that we've ever been guilty of anything like that, obviously, but this does give the actor a chance to show a more identifiable side as opposed to his glittering vampire from the 'Twilight' series.

Previous attempts have been so-so, not really challenging the star to any great extent. Here, though, there is no place to hide and Pattinson excels. He oozes charm, and also succeeds in showing us a devious side without turning into a caricature cad.

Ricci and Thurman get rare occasions to show off opposite the leading man, and all that is left for Kristin Scott Thomas by the time she appears is the thankless task of an older woman who is desperately in love with a younger man. That said, she is wonderful in her portrayal, and makes Madame Rousset one of the only characters we actually cared about.

The film as a whole might feel lopsided, but thankfully the stellar performances keep you entertained. It's not quite the 'Twilight' bashing film that Pattinson needs to firmly establish himself away from that franchise, but a definite step in the right direction.

The verdict...
Things unfurl at a leisurely pace, but this does give us a chance to see Pattinson develop a distinctive character. His persona might be smug and dislikeable, but it does give credence to the acting ability of the star.

Rating: 3/5

DON'T FORGET! UK/IRELAND/ANYONE ELSE! BAT4Rob! Click HERE. 

Thank you Sky & Claire for the tip!

Reviews for Robert Pattinson's Bel Ami: 2 press and 1 fan have a spirited time!

Reviews for Robert Pattinson's Bel Ami: 2 press and 1 fan have a spirited time!



Constructive, intelligent reviews that don't bitterly bash Rob. We've got 3! :)

From Red (UK):

Putting aside his role of brooding Twilight heartthrob Edward Cullen, Robert Pattinson stars alongside a stellar cast in Declan Donnellan and Nick Ormerod’s Bel Ami.

Robert Pattinson plays Georges Duroy a 19th century soldier returning to Paris from the French army in Algeria. After bumping into Forestier (Philip Glenister), an old friend from Algeria, he is invited to his home for dinner where he meets the cream of Paris society including Forestier’s wife Madeleine (Uma Thurman).

Intent on bettering himself he uses his hits wit and charm to seduce Madeleine’s friends, the demure Madame Rousset (Kristin Scott Thomas) and the flirtatious Clotilde (Christina Ricci), to rise from poverty to wealth.

Manipulative and sexy, Bel Ami is the raunchy period drama that will make you re-think Robert Pattinson's acting abilities.

From Time Out (UK):

3 out 5 stars

Robert Pattinson steps into the shoes of antihero Georges Duroy for this lively if muddled adaptation of Guy de Maupassant’s 1885 novel, directed by Declan Donnellan and Nick Ormerod, known for their theatre company Cheek By Jowl. Duroy is a likeable rogue in a world of scoundrels, an ex-soldier on his uppers in Paris who crosses the threshold of the chattering classes when he meets an old acquaintance,  journalist Charles Forestier (Philip Glenister), who introduces him to a web of high-class intrigue that stretches from the boardroom to the bedroom. It’s in the latter that Duroy excels, and he exercises his charms on Forestier’s wife Madeleine (Uma Thurman), and her two friends, fun-loving Clothilde (Christina Ricci) and older, vulnerable Madame Rousset (Kristin Scott Thomas), the wife of a powerful editor.

As a whirlwind of bonking and banquets, ‘Bel Ami’ is diverting and sometimes amusing, and Pattinson is adequate in the lead – pretty enough to convince as a womaniser but with enough of a hint of ambition and a moral vacuum behind the eyes. His scenes with Ricci have an attractive sense of abandon to them, but the other two women make little sense beyond superficial tics. There are serious themes afoot concerning backroom dealing in politics and media, but these are never brought out by Donnellan and Ormerod, who rush through the material with little time for thought and zero sense that anything is at stake. This ‘Bel Ami’ is spirited and sensible but little more than period fluff.

From fan, vampirefreak101, via RPattzGirl:

My Bel Ami review :) *spoilers*

LOVED it.

I'd read a few bad reviews and honestly was feeling apprehensive, but was pleasantly surprised as how good it was.

Robs acting is very good. He plays Georges very well. And he is in almost every scene.

Obviously this was filmed 2 years ago and i've noticed in the Twilight films that his acting has slowly improved. (So Cosmopolis should be brilliant!)

There are a few scenes with the lead actresses where their acting careers show, but Rob is getting better and better.

Rob is not always going to be 'gorgeous Rob' in every film and I was glad that there were some scenes where Georges is tired, desperate and battered. This helps to highlight Robs acting and not just his looks. (Tink: I love this note because I imagine Duroy battered and tired looking. A villain that is physically deteriorating and looks haggard from his evil doing. Not the pretty man we're used to.)

I loved every scene that Christina Ricci was in.

The sex scenes..well the scenes are very short and to be honest, although they convey Georges character and are important plot points, they're not pivotal scenes. They're snapshots. The longest scene, with Uma, is not sexy at all and is actually uncomfortable to watch. The scenes with Christina showing the passage of time is really well done.

The scene when Georges sits down at the table with all 3 of his conquests is hilarious. The smirk on his face is just perfect.

The directors of Bel Ami are theatre directors, and it shows, in a good way. Instead of feeling immersed in the story, you feel like you are merely an observer. This works really well for the context of the book/story.

I haven't read the book in a while so I can't compare the book to the film in exact detail, but the film definitely conveys the time period and Georges character brilliantly. The interwoven deceit of 'everyone out for themselves' mentality is spot on.

Well done to everyone involved in the making of Bel Ami !

P.S. Rob playing 'ball and cup' = <3

MSN UK felt Rob was miscast but the reviewer wasn't douchey. 2 out of 5 stars. Click HERE to read. 

Did you miss our rep's unbiased review of Bel Ami from the London Screening yesterday? Click HERE to check it out!

Are you going to BAT4Rob? Click HERE for links ;)

So many fantastic Bel Ami goodies! You can always catch up with our Bel Ami tag :)

Robert Pattinson and Bel Ami reviewed by Irish publication

Robert Pattinson and Bel Ami reviewed by Irish publication


From entertainment.ie (Ireland) by Gráinne Humphreys reporting from Jameson Dublin International Film Festival:

Directed by acclaimed theatre directors Declan Donnellan and Nick Ormerod (aka Cheek by Jowl), Bel Ami is a sumptuous adaptation of Guy de Maupassant’s 1885 novel about an ex-soldier turned journalist who ascends the social ladder, trading one well-connected wife for another.


More social mountaineer than mere climber – after six months working as a clerk in a Parisian newspaper peasant-born Georges Duroy (Robert Pattinson) rises to political editor and becomes a valued member of the incestuous Parisian literati. He is soon the object of affection of three influential women: an unlikely mentor (played by Uma Thurman) who helps him to write his first articles; Clotilde (Christina Ricci) who becomes his passionate mistress, and his boss’s wife (Kristin Scott Thomas), who becomes an unwitting pawn in his ambitious plans.

Based on de Maupassant’s own journalistic career, Bel Ami is both a portrait of Paris and a turbulent sexual merry-go-round in the style of La Ronde and Laclos’s Les Liaisons Dangereuses, complete with amoral characters, heightened sexual economics and the triumph of experience over innocence. With a smart cast and a particularly impressive performance by the underrated Pattinson, first time directors Donnellan and Ormerod have fashioned a highly amusing divertissement.

:))

Review of Robert Pattinson and Bel Ami from Dublin Film Festival screening

Review of Robert Pattinson and Bel Ami from Dublin Film Festival screening



I just can't get enough of the audience reactions and this one from a male viewer. :)
Great read that's thoughtful and constructive. Discussing Rob's previous roles in an intelligent way.

A Non-Review Review by Darren Mooney (excerpted):

I have to admit to being pleasantly surprised by Bel Ami, the first film from theatrical veterans Declan Donnellan & Nick Ormerod. It’s a classy little period drama that doesn’t necessarily redefine the genre, but instead stands as a worth addition to the canon. In a way, it seems like a more lavish BBC adaptation, which is quite a compliment when it comes to period drama. I don’t know if actor Robert Pattinson will necessarily find life after Twilight, but I imagine he will find a niché if he choses his next couple of roles as carefully as he chose this one.

....

Bel Ami might be more overt in its sexual politics, but it does cover a lot of the same thematic ground as Pattinson’s iconic role – such as the notion of damaged relationships between damaged people – and I think it’s a smooth point of transition. I don’t subscribe to the idea that Pattinson is a weak actor, a piece of internet gospel that seems to spread around as part of the overwhelming Twilight hatedom. I don’t think that we have seen the actor given a script that plays to his strengths, and Bel Ami is easily the best project that I have seen him in to date – comfortably ahead of any of the Twilight adaptations, Remember Me or Water for Elephants.

That said, Pattinson still has to convince me that he will make a convincing leading man after the franchise evaporates, but Bel Ami provides relatively strong evidence in his favour. He has more to work with here, and is given a character with significant depth and complexity. Georges Duroy is a character driven by base desires, and inner resentment, and Pattinson manages to express these quite well. I’m not yet entirely sold, but if he can turn out another few performances like this, I think I could be converted.

Head over to his blog, The Movie Blog, and read the rest! Click HERE to continue :)

Read fan reviews HERE and a great review from Cineuropa HERE.

Thanks for the heads up, Maria!

Robert Pattinson's Bel Ami reviewed by Cineuropa

Robert Pattinson's Bel Ami reviewed by Cineuropa

Well what do we have here? A Bel Ami review from a french journalist without ONE mention of Twilight etc.



From Cineuropa/by Bénédicte Prot:

The film’s decor is rich in details, from the flowers on the wall to the bed sheets. Donnellan and Ormerod’s actors shine in this satire of a vile and corrupt society in which we recognise today’s vices, to the point that the seductive young man that we meet at the beginning of the film ends up seeming absolutely despicable. Their film shows the cynicism of the novel Bel-Ami, and is adapted with loyalty and such human and social realism that it remains extremely relevant today.

Read the full review after the cut :)

Click HERE to read the rest

Robert Pattinson's Bel Ami is reviewed and the reviewers are obsessed with Twilight

Robert Pattinson's Bel Ami is reviewed and the reviewers are obsessed with Twilight

Kristin: Ugh. Reviews...
DomRob: We must deal with it. Sit.



Screen Daily wasn't sold:

A lush and impressively assembled adaptation of Guy de Maupassant’s novel about a charming cad who rises through the Parisian high society of the Belle Époque by wooing women useful to his cause, Bel Ami stutters rather than glides and while punctuated by some impressive performances and a fine sense of design it can never quite find the right balance between its twin storylines of seduction and politics.

Reluctant heartthrob Robert Pattinson makes a brave stab at the immoral and manipulative Georges Duroy – the ‘Bel Ami’ of the title – and while his good looks and intense charisma may win over Twihards, the film may have a tough task finding an easy marketplace. Kristin Scott Thomas and Christina Ricci impress as Parisian ladies who are won over by Duroy’s charm, though Uma Thurman as his Machiavellian equal lacks the charm to convince in her demanding period role. R-Patz fans seeking a bodice-ripping costume romance will be disappointed.

Hows about when a reviewer can write a non-Twilight review without these words, I'll take them seriously: RPatz, Twihards, Team Edward.

Bunch of crap after the cut.

Click HERE to read the rest

Robert Pattinson's Bel Ami reviewed by Indiewire/The Playlist

Robert Pattinson's Bel Ami reviewed by Indiewire/The Playlist



A mixed review....highlight: "convincing, well-observed moment"

From Indiewire/ThePlaylist by Jessica Kiang:

From behind, we watch a man in ragged clothes look longingly through the window of a fancy Belle Epoque Parisian restaurant. Inside richly attired women whisper secrets over brimful glasses of champagne and decadent platters laden with food. Later the hungry man in his mean garret relives the moment, jealousy and bitterness at the injustice of his situation playing across his face, before the memory of such opulence actually makes him cry. It's a convincing, well-observed moment that sets up a lot of what we need to know about the man's character. Oh wait, did we mention the man is played by Robert Pattinson?

"Bel Ami," Declan Donnellan and Nick Ormerod's adaptation of the acerbic Guy de Maupassant novel, features a starry cast in some wonderful costuming, and follows the fortunes of ambitious Georges Duroy (Pattinson) as he ruthlessly climbs his way up the social ladder of 1890s Paris, using little but his talents at seduction. It quite speaks to the level of stardom the "Twilight" films have brought the young actor that, in amongst a cast that features Uma Thurman, Christina Ricci and Kristin Scott-Thomas, really the burning question is: What is Pattinson like? Will he convert his detractors (unlikely) or cool the ardor of his vocal fan base (probably impossible)?

MORE after the cut

Click HERE to read the rest

Indiewire reviews Robert Pattinson and Bel Ami: "His wolfish smile is a useful weapon"

Indiewire reviews Robert Pattinson and Bel Ami: "His wolfish smile is a useful weapon"



From Thompson On Hollywood/Indiewire by David Gritten:

'Bel Ami' Stars Rob Pattinson as Sexy Seducer

It makes perfect sense that Rob Pattinson would continue his attempts to broaden his fan base as the "Twilight" franchise nears its end. Starring in a new film adaptation of Guy de Maupassant’s 1885 novel "Bel Ami" certainly advances that project: playing Georges Duroy, an unscrupulous ex-soldier who makes his way up the ladder of Parisian high society by seducing the wives of powerful men, adds a few strings to his bow. (Sony Pictures Classics will release the film stateside on March 2.)


Duroy is unscrupulous, self-absorbed and nakedly ambitious, but has enough sexual magnetism to further his career by talking his way into some of the city’s most opulent bedrooms. Pattinson is thus involved in screen liaisons with actresses old enough to be mothers to "Twilight"’s core audience. It’s a leap of sorts, and not without its risks.


For all that, it’s hard not to wish "Bel Ami" was more engaging. Declan Donnellan and Nick Ormerod are making their debuts as feature film directors after long, stellar careers with the acclaimed theatre company Cheek by Jowl. Their stage background is sometimes apparent: "Bel Ami" (shot in Budapest, standing in for Paris) may well be a story that mostly takes place indoors, but on screen it often feels cramped and claustrophobic.


The topical relevance of "Bel Ami" cannot be overstated. Duroy, returned to France after serving with the French army in Algeria, is a figure who rises in society without actually achieving very much – not a million miles from so many of today’s celebrities. He uses a career in journalism as his ticket to the top, but is barely capable of writing a coherent sentence. Yet he sees that fame can equate with power and influence. It’s all very 21st century.


So is a subplot about political corruption and hypocrisy, and the role journalism can play in bringing down politicians, and even governments. In Britain especially, where hacking scandals have closed down a national newspaper and fraudulent expenses claims by members of Parliament have dominated headlines in recent years, this is resonant material. Yet somehow it never quite meshes with the main narrative: Duroy’s growing influence, and the women he seduces to make it happen.


Fortunately the three actresses in question acquit themselves well. Uma Thurman, the wife of an influential political editor, is a knowing, empathetic character who endorses Duroy’s ambitions, and even writes his piece detailing his memories as a young soldier. Kristin Scott Thomas is the initially frosty wife of a newspaper boss – and few do frosty better than Scott Thomas. But she becomes infatuated by Duroy and reduced to begging him not to end their affair.


Best of all is Christina Ricci as Clothilde, an amiable, charming society woman who Duroy swiftly seduces. Ricci’s career has fluctuated since her film successes in her childhood and adolescence, but here she is more of a vivacious, effective screen presence than she’s been in years.


But Pattinson himself is a problem as Duroy. He displays the character’s ruthlessness adequately and his wolfish smile is a useful weapon in his regard. But he seems ill-at-ease in terms of playing a period role. It’s not that he’s a bad actor, but he looks very much a contemporary young man in a historical context; his body language is too casual and informal for the social circles in which Duroy makes his moves. (The thought occurs that his next role, playing a young Manhattan money-market tycoon in David Cronenberg’s adaptation of Don deLillo’s "Cosmopolis," should suit Pattinson down to the ground.)


As for "Bel Ami," the R-Patz fan community may well investigate it out of curiosity – and it certainly shows their idol in more explicit situations than they’ve seen before. But it’s unlikely to appeal greatly to them; in truth, it’s skewed to older audiences, who may appreciate the themes underlying de Maupassant’s story without them being explicitly spelled out.

Fair review. Not nasty or condescending. Can't wait to see it! But it won't be March 2nd *grumble*. Why oh why is the media getting this wrong for the US? Also liked the shout-out for Cosmopolis!

*NEW* Robert Pattinson "Water For Elephants" TV Spot (With Reviews)

There's no new scenes in this Robert Pattinson "Water For Elephants" TV Spot but there are some reviews added to it.
I see a few names I recognise!



via KevinMcCarthy

"Eclipse" In The Papers

"Eclipse" In The Papers

Some of these are spoilerish so if you haven't seen the film yet it might be best not to read these until you have.

Click For Larger

International Herald Tribune (The Global edition of the NY Times)



LA Times



LA Film Fest



Thanks to the fabulous Darja for the scans