LAist: Movie Review: Before the Devil Knows You're Dead

Josh Tate

Thu, 29 Nov 2007 16:23:44 -0800

I think the base ugliness of the opening scene was rather the point, no? It's really more about Hoffman than Tomei and it hinted at the rotten, indulgent nature of his soul. Have you read Lumet's book, Making Movies? He's certainly a director who has explicit notions about every shot he includes in a film.

brainylagirl

Wed, 28 Nov 2007 18:57:29 -0800

Honestly, I took more exception to the artless way that opening sex scene was shot than any of the scenes where MT was just hanging out in black lace panties, topless.

Josh Tate

Wed, 28 Nov 2007 15:36:19 -0800

The nude scenes were integral to an honest depiction of her character. There's nothing sillier than watching a supposed temptress get out of bed and pull a sheet over her body to cover herself. I'm glad Marisa had the nerve to just go for it. It wasn't exploitative at all. Just like in Eastern Promises when Viggo Mortenson had a savage fight in the nude. He certainly didn't have to be naked, but the fact that he was hugely defined who his character was--a fearless, scary killer.

brainylagirl

Wed, 28 Nov 2007 14:37:00 -0800

Not to take away from the fine form Marissa Tomei's breast, but really? Were they *really* integral to the story-telling? Just sayin'.