BABEL -- Definition:
1. [n] (Genesis 11:1-11) a tower built by Noah's descendants (probably in Babylon) who intended it to reach up to heaven; God foiled them by confusing their language so they could no longer understand one another
2. [n] a confusion of voices and other sounds
Oscar nominations:
i) Performance by an Actress in a Supporting role: Adriana Barraza
ii) Performance by an Actress in a Supporting role: Rinko Kikuchi
iii) Best Director: Alejandro Gonzalez
iv) Best Motion Picture of the Year
v) Best Original Screenplay
vi) Achievement in film editing
vii) Best Original Score
My one sentence synopsis: There are four stories, each akin to a gigantic puzzle piece, to look out for -- a Morroccan shepherd and his two sons, a pair of American tourists, a Mexican nanny and her two young charges, and a deaf mute Japanese teenager -- and part of the fun (and intrigue) of the film is figuring out, by film's end, where each of the puzzle pieces fit in the overall narrative.
You should watch it because:
i) the ensemble cast is excellent throughout -- A-listers Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett are true to form, delivering subtle yet believable performances while the relative unknowns are also gifted thespians in their own right. Of the latter bunch, Barraza and Kikuchi really shine, as they were able to successfully engage and move audiences with their effective emotive performances despite their comparatively short on-screen times with which to build their characters.
ii) Despite being essentially four stories taking place in diverse locations, there is nothing fragmented about the film; the disparate scenes form a cohesive and harmonious whole that conveys its central message of miscommunication (like its namesake) very strongly and intelligently. With such an epic scale (locations span three continents) and theme, brilliant acting, directing and overall execution, the film is a veritable shoo-in for Best Picture. But of course, the final verdict at the Oscars may surprise us yet...
You should NOT watch it because --
You're an idiot and thought-provoking films bore you to death.
Oscar moment:
That last bit when Barraza was left stranded in the desert and watching her mounting hysteria was like... wow! Kikuchi, has a defining moment when her character realizes eventually that even by using her sex appeal (which she has aplenty!), she could not attain the intimate companionship and affection she craves.
my ratings: 4.5 stars!!!
