Rian Johnson’s Brick is, to my mind, the very definition of a modern classic – not only because it’s fantastic, but also because it dares to combine the old and the new in a smart, sexy, and stylish way. A neo-noir story dropped smack into a contemporary setting, Brick is an effortlessly engaging visual and aural delight.
Released in 2005, the film stars Joseph Gordon-Levitt as lonely outsider “Brendan,” who finds his girlfriend “Emily” (Emilie de Ravin) dead outside a remote tunnel. Recalling a hysterical phone call from Emily a few days prior, Brendan embarks on a mission to find her killer, infiltrating his high school’s elaborate social hierarchy in his quest for justice.
It would be very easy for this to be a less-than-stellar film, what with the peculiarity of setting such a dark detective tale in a modern-day high school setting. Thankfully, Rian Johnson is just the man for the job. He’s written a truly astounding screenplay, with rapid-fire dialogue that grabs the audience by the ears and never lets go. What’s more, he’s got real style, framing each shot with subtle purpose and the utmost finesse.
As for the cast, they handle the material beautifully. Gordon-Levitt is, of course, a joy to watch, delivering a wonderfully understated performance that is both elegant and raw. Surrounded by a fabulous supporting cast, he brings Johnson’s vision to life.
Fans of Johnson’s later films (Looper and The Brothers Bloom) should see Brick at the first possible opportunity, if they haven’t already. It’s a stunning debut from a filmmaker with limitless potential.
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