I am not familiar with Todd Field and his works but this film definitely makes me curious to check out his stuff. Tár follows the life of renowned composer/conductor Lydia Tár facing potentially career ending accusations of sexual misconduct. Throughout this film, we see the toll these allegations have on Lydia's life and mentality. Despite being entirely fictional, this movie feels like a biopic of someone's real life. The dialogue feels like real people talking and there is great attention to detail on the musical aspects of the film. This film will educate those not familiar with the world of orchestras while keeping the focus on character at the forefront.
Of course, the best part of this film is Cate Blanchett, who delivers an absolute masterpiece of a performance as Lydia Tár. She brilliantly portrays the character's mental downfall and brings extraordinary energy to the conducting scenes. There are numerous extended scenes of her speaking/lecturing to a group and you are captivated by her performance the entire time. All other performances are stellar too, particularly Nina Hoss.
The ideas and themes of this film leave a lot of room for discussion such as can great art come from horrible people and if so, should we disregard it, or separate it from the artist? Is Tár a flawed but ultimately innocent individual, or truly is as horrible as the allegations make her out to be. Since we view the film through Lydia's perspective, it is left ambiguous to the audience, allowing you to make your own judgements.
Overall, Tár is a well-shot and superbly acted film. It may be long but the slow-burn is worth it. Blanchett is the highlight and the film leaves a lot to the viewer to dissect and discuss. I am sure there is plenty more to find on a subsequent re-watches.
Of course, the best part of this film is Cate Blanchett, who delivers an absolute masterpiece of a performance as Lydia Tár. She brilliantly portrays the character's mental downfall and brings extraordinary energy to the conducting scenes. There are numerous extended scenes of her speaking/lecturing to a group and you are captivated by her performance the entire time. All other performances are stellar too, particularly Nina Hoss.
The ideas and themes of this film leave a lot of room for discussion such as can great art come from horrible people and if so, should we disregard it, or separate it from the artist? Is Tár a flawed but ultimately innocent individual, or truly is as horrible as the allegations make her out to be. Since we view the film through Lydia's perspective, it is left ambiguous to the audience, allowing you to make your own judgements.
Overall, Tár is a well-shot and superbly acted film. It may be long but the slow-burn is worth it. Blanchett is the highlight and the film leaves a lot to the viewer to dissect and discuss. I am sure there is plenty more to find on a subsequent re-watches.