Café Society
Lionsgate | Release Date: July 15, 2016
6.6
USER SCORE
Generally favorable reviews based on 149 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
91
Mixed:
44
Negative:
14
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9
BHBarryJul 16, 2016
"Café Society" represents 80 year old Woody Allen’s 47th film and, after a couple of recent merely "OK" submissions, his latest is a real winner. Written and directed by this talented octogenarian, Mr. Allen, as the film's narrator, tells a"Café Society" represents 80 year old Woody Allen’s 47th film and, after a couple of recent merely "OK" submissions, his latest is a real winner. Written and directed by this talented octogenarian, Mr. Allen, as the film's narrator, tells a tender and warm love story which stars Jesse Eisenberg, Kristen Stewart and Steve Carell in this effort by a young kid from the Bronx (Mr. Eisenberg) who comes to a 1930’s Los Angeles in search of a new career. Mr. Allen’s familiar jabs at Los Angeles and his obvious love of Manhattan all take prominence in this beautifully written, acted and photographed film. Mention must also be made of the wonderful soundtrack that supports each well directed scene so that the audience is captured by and brought into the genre and lifestyle appearing on the screen. This is a film that the viewer can just sit back, relax and enjoy with a story that is well told in words and pictures and, in no understatement, restores Mr. Allen to his rightful place as one of the great filmmakers of our time.. I give the film a 9.0 rating with a strong recommendation that it be seen by all who can find a way to get to any theater in which it may be playing.… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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4
TVJerryAug 1, 2016
Jesse Eisenberg is the latest delightful incarnation of writer/director Woody Allen's classic neurotic character. He plays a young man who moves to '30s Hollywood for a job in the film industry. Although show biz names are frequently dropped,Jesse Eisenberg is the latest delightful incarnation of writer/director Woody Allen's classic neurotic character. He plays a young man who moves to '30s Hollywood for a job in the film industry. Although show biz names are frequently dropped, this isn't a behind-the=camera story. It centers around his frustrated love affair with a young secretary (Kristen Stewart, who shows no special allure in the role). Even with Allen's energetic style, the dialogue is usually flat and most scenes go on too long. What the film has going for it is the art direction: beautiful sets/locations, lovely costumes and Vittorio Storaro's rich, gorgeous classic cinematography.… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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8
MattyiceJul 31, 2016
This film shows a reflective Allen with all his appreciable comedy and storytelling skills intact and on display. The film engages both the head and heart and should be seen by anyone looking for a thoughtful respite from the summer's carThis film shows a reflective Allen with all his appreciable comedy and storytelling skills intact and on display. The film engages both the head and heart and should be seen by anyone looking for a thoughtful respite from the summer's car chases, hyperactive aliens and gratuitous bloodstained mayhem.… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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7
SpangleJul 30, 2016
Jesse Eisenberg is born to play the Woody Allen character in Woody Allen films. Neurotic, frantic, and deeply awkward, Eisenberg fits the role to a tee and plays it to perfection in Cafe Society. As with all of Allen's films, it explores theJesse Eisenberg is born to play the Woody Allen character in Woody Allen films. Neurotic, frantic, and deeply awkward, Eisenberg fits the role to a tee and plays it to perfection in Cafe Society. As with all of Allen's films, it explores the nature of love and philosophy, makes fun of those who philosophize, offers social commentary on Judaism, and rubs shoulders with the upper crust of society. As with most of his films, it is certainly laced with witty dialogue, fun characters, and great acting. Led by Eisenberg, he once more shows that he has terrific chemistry with Kristen Stewart. At this point, the duo is like the less attractive, less charismatic version of Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone with the frequency of their collaborations. The rest of the cast is quite good as well, especially Steve Carell and Blake Lively. Additionally, the cinematography is phenomenal and gives the film this dreamlike atmosphere that perfectly captures the similarities (despite perceived differences) between Los Angeles and New York. As always, Woody Allen is still witty and great at creating realistic and touching romances, while blending in religion and social commentary. Though not rising to the quality of his best films, Cafe Society is a sweet, seductive, and charming little romantic comedy that may be a bit slight, but remains thoroughly entertaining.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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2
screenplayhouseSep 13, 2016
TOP TEN THINGS WRONG WITH CAFE SOCIETY

10. The title makes zero sense until deep into the movie. Then it feels wrong anyway. 09. Kristen Stewart was awful. Sorry. When Jesse becomes married absolutely no one would understand whyTOP TEN THINGS WRONG WITH CAFE SOCIETY

10. The title makes zero sense until deep into the movie. Then it feels wrong anyway.
09. Kristen Stewart was awful. Sorry. When Jesse becomes married absolutely no one would understand why he was still dreaming about Kristen. Flat soda.
08. Could you have chosen three actors that looked and sounded less like brothers?
07. Steve Carell was also miscast. But I felt he could have done more with the role to cover this up. He seemed to resent every minute of this film he appeared in.
06. I have to presume a scene or two with Carell and his wife were cut -- since 'Laura Palmer' played his wife and you'd never know it. otherwise.
05. Every mobster thug scene had nothing to do with the story. The 'comic violence' was there to make sure you remained awake. Kinda funny the first time (if you ignore this device having been used countless times in other Allen movies), pat the second, desperate the rest. This story did backflips to explain who Jesse inherited a successful nightclub. A simpler solution would have been his Uncle being an investor in it. That he created a club in NYC to get rid of Jesse from Hollywood. Just saying.
04. It's said that Woody likes to write smart roles for women. At this point: nonsense. What he does is give dumb female characters big words to say, which creates the illusion they're smart. But look at their behavior. And --
03. -- have you noticed Woody always writes 'himself' in as a male who criticizes women who refuse to love him? That's pretty warped.
02. My wife and I noticed the sets were the best part of the film.
01. A discussion of God was here. And a discussion of being indirectly responsible for a murder. Both listless memes at this point.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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7
foxgroveSep 21, 2016
Woody Allen’s films are often either a hit or miss affair. Thankfully, Café Society can be considered a minor hit. In fact it is Allen’s best film since the excellent ‘Blue Jasmine’ three years ago. It can also be considered something of aWoody Allen’s films are often either a hit or miss affair. Thankfully, Café Society can be considered a minor hit. In fact it is Allen’s best film since the excellent ‘Blue Jasmine’ three years ago. It can also be considered something of a surprise in many ways. Jesse Eisenberg is really rather good playing a role that Allen would have allocated to himself a couple of decades ago, and a blossoming Kristen Stewart does herself no harm at all in adding this confident performance to her cv. The screenplay is also relatively funny. It may not be an all-out laugh fest, but it certainly encourages one to wear a smile throughout the running time. Visually the film is one of Allen’s most accomplished belying what is probably a fairly modest budget. Vittorio Storaro’s cinematography must be amongst the best of the year in its field. Ditto the gorgeous production design and dazzling costumes. All in all it is definitely a more enjoyable film to watch than you would expect based on the quality of Allen’s recent output.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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7
jrodfilmsAug 1, 2016
standard woody allen of his 2010 years. it actually feels a bit like irrational man, a story of romance, but with some dark themes hidden underneath it. the cinematography is amazing, and steve carrel isnt that annoying.
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
rbbJul 30, 2016
A mid-level Woody Allen film is far better than 95% of other films in theaters. Creative script, great acting, directing, scenery, a pleasant and watchable story.
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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3
festavarianAug 3, 2016
Totally disappointed in this predictable Allen "relationship saga". Eisenberg is acting as Allen's present day kyphotic doppelgänger, frenetically spewing out classic "Allenisms" that have grown very old. There is nothing cute or evenTotally disappointed in this predictable Allen "relationship saga". Eisenberg is acting as Allen's present day kyphotic doppelgänger, frenetically spewing out classic "Allenisms" that have grown very old. There is nothing cute or even entertaining about perpetuating this flawed and somewhat childish personality type for another generation. As usual, the movie is heavily steeped in Jewish argot. Only good performances by Stewart and Kat Edmonson save this non- imaginative Allen train wreck.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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10
NightReviewsAug 23, 2016
At eighty years young, Woody Allen delivers his forty-sixth (yup, you read that right) feature film with Café Society; a bourbon basked narrative feature showcasing the wonderfully vibrant jazz era of the 1930’s, where the magic of the moviesAt eighty years young, Woody Allen delivers his forty-sixth (yup, you read that right) feature film with Café Society; a bourbon basked narrative feature showcasing the wonderfully vibrant jazz era of the 1930’s, where the magic of the movies is very much alive; nightclubs are bustling with life, traces of the gangster underworld are closer than ever and love is a feeling as whimsical as ever in a parallel tale spanning from Hollywood to New York City.

After forty-six films, you would think, with a director and writer as aged as most of our grandparents, the dialogue and writer of such an iconic filmmaker would lose his touch, but Allen proves his newest feature is as fresh, fun and fantastic as could be. Self-aware and self-absorbed as ever, the auteur extraordinaire showcases some of his most subtle and subdued screenplay to date, focusing mostly on performance from his very young cast and indulging in the beauty of a lively era within the very social elite of Hollywood and New York City.

Like any good Allen film, the story follows a very unsure and adventurous young man by the name of Bobby Dorfman, played perfectly by the nerdy and always loveable Jesse Eisenberg. Bobby, who has chosen for a change of scenery from his native New York City life, decides to chance life on a whim, and join his highly successful and famed uncle Phil Stern (Steve Carell), a Hollywood agent and grande opportunist for a lavish life in Hollywood. Reluctant to really give his nephew a chance, Uncle Phil caves and leaves Bobby in the hands of his angelic and innocently beautiful secretary and assistant Vonnie, played elegantly by Kristen Stewart. Taken by her beauty at first site, Bobby and Vonnie begin experiencing the city of angels through the eyes of glamour and glitz, essentially discrediting the city and its inhabitants as a whole, and wishing for a life that is half Hollywood, and half urban paradise.

As the relationship between Vonnie and Bobby intensifies, despite Vonnie having a secretive relationship with another married man, the two share some of the most memorable meet-cute dates seen this year on screen.

The heart of Café Society relies heavily on the relationship and chemistry between Eisenberg and Stewart, who, luckily for audiences, have played love interests twice before in Adventureland and American Ultra. By now, while watching Café Society, one of the most frustrating elements of the film is why the two stars haven’t began dating outside of the narrative of the films they star in. Eisenberg’s quirk matched with the mysteriousness and nonchalant attitude of Stewart, make the two and quintessential non-Hollywood/Hollywood couple.

As life complicates itself, as all matters of the heart do, Bobby soon finds himself back in the big Apple, eventually succumbing to his big brother Ben (Corey Stoll) and managing a somewhat legitimate business in Le Tropical, a nightclub owned by Ben, among other very illegal and gangster business endeavours. Stoll, who dons a full head of hair as the fiery and ruthless gangster brother to Bobby, brings forth the charm and wit he did as Ernest Hemingway in Allen Midnight In Paris. An Allen alum, Stoll provides the film with some of its most expected comedy, yet is pitch-perfect as the tough guy older brother who knows no life other than the life of the streets.

Allen, who uses many of the same actors over in his films, Stoll twice, Eisenberg twice, Posey, Sirico and company, relies on his actors to deliver some of his most entertaining, fun and light-hearted material to date. Café Society is a fun, summerlicious filled romantic comedy with perfect instances of light-hearted dialogue and narrative that uses the beautiful jazz music as a mosaic of forbidden love and second chances.

While Café Society may not be the huge commercial success of other summer blockbuster films, the film is easily one of my favourite films of the year, delivering a true cinematically entrancing experience, much like Allen’s Midnight In Paris.

If there is one thing I would recommend this summer season, its to make sure to watch this film by any means necessary. Café Society proves again that, like many good comedies, most are written by sadistic comedy writers, and while Allen’s newest is far from sadistic, the film is an examined portrayal of an era of the golden days of cinema that brings back the golden, and leaves the rust behind. Sure, Allen can be completely self-absorbed with his films, making sure his unique cinematic voice is heard and quirkiness felt wholeheartedly, but, regardless of all that, I absolutely fell in love with this film. And while love is not rational, you fall, and lose control, which is the exact same feeling I had when leaving the cinema for this film.… Expand
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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6
Brent_MarchantJul 22, 2016
A mildly amusing though largely inconsequential release that provides little in the way of story, character development or insight. The period piece production values and cinematography are indeed top-notch, but the performances are generallyA mildly amusing though largely inconsequential release that provides little in the way of story, character development or insight. The period piece production values and cinematography are indeed top-notch, but the performances are generally underwhelming and the writing surprisingly pedestrian. It's rather strange to think of "Woody Allen" and "fluff" in the same thought, but, regrettably, they go together all too well in this uninspired, generally humorless offering.… Expand
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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0
SSH83Oct 22, 2016
Jesse Eisenberg was a horrible casting choice. He turned all the charming bits into freakish and sexual-harassment. There is no sympathy for the Bobby character at the end because of this. Just a pathetic weirdo/loser and you wonder why doJesse Eisenberg was a horrible casting choice. He turned all the charming bits into freakish and sexual-harassment. There is no sympathy for the Bobby character at the end because of this. Just a pathetic weirdo/loser and you wonder why do women even love him so. If the lead role was given to an actually charming actor, the movie would've worked much better.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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6
TheMetacritiqerJul 29, 2016
The 2nd best Lionsgate movie ever after Expendables 2. The real star here is Kristen Stewart. And once again, Eisenberg is type cast but thats ok. a slightly better than average movie
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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1
pdw123Aug 18, 2016
a totally banal picture, and so bad, that I'll probably have to forego all future Woody endeavors. And, I'm really tired of Eisenberg and his whiny angst and voice, who seems typecast in virtually everything except for the Social Network. Aa totally banal picture, and so bad, that I'll probably have to forego all future Woody endeavors. And, I'm really tired of Eisenberg and his whiny angst and voice, who seems typecast in virtually everything except for the Social Network. A total waste of my valuable time traveling 2 hours on the bus to see it too.… Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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4
GinaKAug 3, 2016
A movie without any convincing drama and so a major disappointment. It is beautifully colored and I thought Kristen Stewart gave a wonderful performance (she actually seemed conflicted), but all this did was highlight what a woodenA movie without any convincing drama and so a major disappointment. It is beautifully colored and I thought Kristen Stewart gave a wonderful performance (she actually seemed conflicted), but all this did was highlight what a wooden performance Jessie Eisenberg gave. Was he miscast or is this all he is capable of? But then you could say Steve Carrell was miscast too, except his performance was interesting from beginning to end, even though Allen didn’t give him much to work with. In a way this movie is sad because Allen can still come up with interesting characters but all of them in this film were wasted because nothing much happened that anyone could really care about.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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6
televinJul 24, 2016
I thought Steve Carell was terribly miscast . He seemed to be playing his Michael Scott character (The Office) as Phil Stern.....Was a typical Allen movie in many ways , meandering thruout. Eisenberg and Lively did quite well , Stewart's 15I thought Steve Carell was terribly miscast . He seemed to be playing his Michael Scott character (The Office) as Phil Stern.....Was a typical Allen movie in many ways , meandering thruout. Eisenberg and Lively did quite well , Stewart's 15 minutes will come to a close soon. The "love stories" in the flick were interesting but much of the film just seemed like a lot of fluff......If you like Allen you will probably like the film… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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8
georgikAug 20, 2016
I loved this movie! Every detail was attended to that enabled you to be transformed back to 1930's Hollywood, as it certainly was. If boredom creeps into your movie watching, this one is for you! There is not a moment that somethingI loved this movie! Every detail was attended to that enabled you to be transformed back to 1930's Hollywood, as it certainly was. If boredom creeps into your movie watching, this one is for you! There is not a moment that something critical to the plot, is not unfolding. The acting is wonderful and well cast. The mood, lighting, architecture,dazzling period cars, music, and costuming is authentic and enticing. The movie creates a spell that catches you up in the splendor and realities of a time past, but also reflective of what still plagues the Hollywood life style. I'm amazed that Woody Allen is still churning out these highly entertaining movies that he writes and directs for the enjoyment of generations of his fans. It was an evening well spent!… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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7
DirigiblePulpJan 31, 2017
A nice nostalgia trip. Gorgeous golden cinematography and subtle performances. It's a surprisingly dark movie, unsurprisingly melancholic. It actually makes for an interesting pair with La La Land (which is what I did, inadvertently). TheyA nice nostalgia trip. Gorgeous golden cinematography and subtle performances. It's a surprisingly dark movie, unsurprisingly melancholic. It actually makes for an interesting pair with La La Land (which is what I did, inadvertently). They share similar old-fashioned themes and a love for old Hollywood, with a similar resolve about the fate of living and loving. Though for me, LLL sticks the landing better.… Expand
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9
preciouskikiAug 2, 2016
Enjoyed every minute of it. What a great cast! Jesse Eisenberg, Kirsten Stewart, Steve Carell, and Blake Lively are all just terrific in this delightful 1930s period piece. I thought Corey Stoll was particularly good as the gangster brother.Enjoyed every minute of it. What a great cast! Jesse Eisenberg, Kirsten Stewart, Steve Carell, and Blake Lively are all just terrific in this delightful 1930s period piece. I thought Corey Stoll was particularly good as the gangster brother. And it was especially good to see Jeannie Berlin again as Rose Dorfman, the mother of Jesse Eisenberg's character. You may remember her as the spurned wife in the original 1972 "Heartbreak Kid" opposite the inimitable Charles Grodin. (I'm glad to say that gem of a movie has turned up on TV again recently after a long absence.) Sari Lennick does a great job as the sister Evelyn. Stunning costumes, gorgeous scenery, wonderful music, and a fun story: what more could you want? Woody Allen narrates.… Expand
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6
lancekozOct 28, 2016
I liked this as a fan of the style and music, but the uneven script had the lead playing an unwarranted range that Eisenberg just could not handle, and there was a distinct lack of chemistry between him and Stewart. All the other actorsI liked this as a fan of the style and music, but the uneven script had the lead playing an unwarranted range that Eisenberg just could not handle, and there was a distinct lack of chemistry between him and Stewart. All the other actors seemed more interesting! Carrel had some gravitas, the sister and husband and parents looked and acted much more the part of thirties' characters. Story gets a bit funnier and more dramatic in the last half, but still, oddly unsatisfying. In Woody's current movies, there is a point where the husbands are mercilessly lying to their wives as they embrace... a creepy commentary on the the value of matrimony that he keeps repeating. At first I got a sense maybe he's trying to play it for laughs but it happens so often, I distinctly feel like it has a confessional role in Woody's life. Kind of tiring.
GORGEOUS to look at tho.… Expand
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7
ledaumasAug 25, 2016
I like this movie but I could see it took plot points from two Billy Wilder movies: "The Apartment" showing a woman between 2 men and a broken compact that reveals the relationship to the other. Also, "Some Like it Hot" making being aI like this movie but I could see it took plot points from two Billy Wilder movies: "The Apartment" showing a woman between 2 men and a broken compact that reveals the relationship to the other. Also, "Some Like it Hot" making being a gangster and killing as funny.… Expand
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3
NedRyerson1Feb 25, 2017
Café Society is definitely the proof that the Woody Allen we used to know is gone. With few successes in the past years (Vicky Cristina Barcelona, Match Point and Blue Jasmine) and too many failures (I gave up with Magic in the Moonlight,Café Society is definitely the proof that the Woody Allen we used to know is gone. With few successes in the past years (Vicky Cristina Barcelona, Match Point and Blue Jasmine) and too many failures (I gave up with Magic in the Moonlight, didn’t see the one from last year, but reconsider another opportunity for this one), Café Society is one more from the bunch. Boring story, nonexistent plot, flat and simple-minded characters, terrible cast and awful performances. The script is classic of Woody Allen, but it gave us nothing new, just the irony, paranoia and false superiority of all the previous works; and frankly, that’s not enough anymore. Times have changed, the viewer is more sophisticated and used to clever and demanding plots, but Allen is the same old man, refusing to admit his mistakes.… Expand
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5
jgzegerJun 29, 2019
Jesse Eisenberg plays the familiar Woody Allen character who we've all gotten tired of a long time ago. There is little to recommend in this film.
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5
GreatMartinJul 29, 2016
As an old man after directing and in most cases writing the screenplays for 49 pictures Woody Allen has always has a hand in the past reflecting on what was and would could have been. In "Cafe Society" during the first half, he looks atAs an old man after directing and in most cases writing the screenplays for 49 pictures Woody Allen has always has a hand in the past reflecting on what was and would could have been. In "Cafe Society" during the first half, he looks at Hollywood in the 1930s when the studios were experiencing the star of the golden age and names such as Barbara Stanwyck, Errol Flynn, Ginger Rogers and such were name dropped at parties, sought after by agents and movies were lived 24/7 both in reel and real life. In the second half it is to the clubs of New York with speakeasies rising out of the bootleg era and becoming the Stork club and 21 Club. In both cities people dressed to the nines in the evening and were always trying to impress someone else.

The film opens with Bobby Dorfman, (Jesse Eisenberg) a nerd, a word unknown then, coming to Hollywood hoping to get a job with his uncle, Phil, (Steve Carell), who is always making deals as a press agent. He is cheating on his wife with his assistant, Vonnie, (Kristen Stewart) who Bobby also falls in love with only knowing she has a boyfriend who is a writer and travels a lot.

It's a slight screenplay and if you look too closely at it it doesn't make sense but like many of Woody Allen's movies there are many pluses one almost always being the acting. Steve Carell is just annoying enough to be your idea of a Hollywood agent while Jesse Eisenberg is Woody's stand in giving more depth than usually brought to the role.

Blake Lively left me with the impression that this is an actress I would like to see more often while Jeannie Berlin, the stereotyped Jewish mother, brings something extra to make her a bit more substantial.Corey Stoll as Bobby's gangster brother and Marty Dorfman as their father, along with all the actors, just as the production aspects, make the picture feel authentic just as the period music always grabs your interest and fits what is happening on the screen.

Two things really make "Cafe Society" stand out and one is the beautiful cinematography by Vittorio Storaro that shows what color can do for/to a movie.

The other is Kristian Stewart. I vaguely remembered her from Jodi Foster's movie "Panic Room" but lost interest in her after seeing she was going to be in "The Twilight Saga" just as I didn't follow Daniel Radcliff in the Harry Potter series--yes, I admit it publicly! and became interested in him seeing the roles he took after showing that he wasn't a one note actor. After seeing Stewart in "Welcome to the Riley's" and especially "Clouds of Sils Maria" followed by "Still Alice" I started seeing her in a new light. This movie role, which make the film more interesting than what is written because of the way she plays Vonnie, made me think of stalwart actresses such as Mary Stuart Masterson, Parker Posey and Laura Linney, all so called 'Indie Darlings' and always bringing something extra to a role.

Now for Woody Allen's 50th movie how about Daniel Radcliff and Kristian Stewart?… Expand
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9
VonSeuxOct 1, 2016
Isn't simply great having an amusing intelligent adult film every year by the hands of a trusted director not bothered with large production, but always with a handful of talented actors doing the best to deliver the best performance like onIsn't simply great having an amusing intelligent adult film every year by the hands of a trusted director not bothered with large production, but always with a handful of talented actors doing the best to deliver the best performance like on a actor school? how great it is to see popular action, chick-flicks, comedy series actors doing something one may think is reserved for just a few? Just a remind; not every Woody movie needs to be a big event - he's been doing one every year. Relax and enjoy!… Expand
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6
LeZeeOct 4, 2016
A boy from the east, a girl from the west and their life choice over romance.

If you are a film fanatic or a film critic, then the year never comes to end without watching a film by Woody Allen. He's just a Takashi Miike of the Hollywood,A boy from the east, a girl from the west and their life choice over romance.

If you are a film fanatic or a film critic, then the year never comes to end without watching a film by Woody Allen. He's just a Takashi Miike of the Hollywood, but the thing is he always delivers. He had created his own style of screen presentation like in the line of Wes Anderson and very few others. Uniqueness define his works and so this another romance twisted tale where the first half of the film sets in Los Angeles and the next half in the New York.

A young Jewish American wants to try his luck in the Hollywood seeks help from his uncle who's a popular an busiest agent in the film industry. He falls in love with his uncle's personal assistant, but she reveals she already has a boyfriend who's away now. After some twists in the tale, it becomes a romance-triangle. Who gets who and how it all ends brings the curtain to the film.

Like usual Woody Allen's background narration had an important role in the storytelling and all those romance troubles were quite nicely told. It opened so well, developed at its best in the middle, but it did not end on a high. I did not like the conclusion, or the last 10-15 minutes. But thankfully it avoided giving out the usual stuff and the end credits rolled up before clearing the situation in the story. That's one of the way to finish it off, which is obviously not clever like lots of films does that same trick. Whatever, still the film is worth a watch, because of the decent story and great performances, and obviously for Woody Allen.

6/10… Expand
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3
psyberdelicOct 25, 2016
Mediocre... Didn't care about any of the characters... A workmanlike movie with zero snap... Allen has done some good work recently... This isn't one of them... Hoped the period sets and costumes would make up for a blah story...Mediocre... Didn't care about any of the characters... A workmanlike movie with zero snap... Allen has done some good work recently... This isn't one of them... Hoped the period sets and costumes would make up for a blah story... Nope... If you want to see a great 1930's evocation try The Thirteenth Floor... Good sci fi story to go with it...… Expand
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1
Rossi163Jan 15, 2017
I was appalled at how bad this movie was. After the first 30 minutes I knew it wasn't going to get any better and it only got worse. Nothing but a pretentious Hollywood writer's puff piece...the kind of film that those involved in theI was appalled at how bad this movie was. After the first 30 minutes I knew it wasn't going to get any better and it only got worse. Nothing but a pretentious Hollywood writer's puff piece...the kind of film that those involved in the creation of it are all too self aware and smug in their "prose". It was beautifully shot, and every scene was a visual work of art, but nothing in this film rang true. The performances were superficial and phony, the storyline was lame and uninspiring, and I didn't care a rat's ass about any of the characters. Not one. Jesse Eisenberg displays talent, but he plays the exact same character in every film in which he appears. The hunch-backed, neurotic, talk-y, jew. I can't stand him anymore. Why does he keep getting cast?

And the really grating aspect of this farce of a "serious" film is that they somehow were able to render Kristen Stewart as bland and visually unappealing. WTF???… Expand
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5
AxeTAug 19, 2016
This is typical late model middle of the road Woody Allen. It's slightly amusing, slightly funny at times, and slightly involving. The story of a young man who moves to L.A. from New York is nothing new for the movies, but is of novelThis is typical late model middle of the road Woody Allen. It's slightly amusing, slightly funny at times, and slightly involving. The story of a young man who moves to L.A. from New York is nothing new for the movies, but is of novel interest as told by Allen set in the golden age of Hollywood.
Jesse Eisenberg is so similar on screen to a young Woody Allen it's surprising he didn't cast him a long time ago and regularly as other directors have done with young protege/archetypes who resemble their younger selves, but then again Mr. Allen is such a legend he has no problem assembling new casts each and every year from the endless well of name actors who want to be in one of his movies no questions asked. Woody is of course a lot funnier and more intellectual than Jesse though, and Mr. Eisenberg is that much more skittishly nervous in his demeanor. As for Ms. Stewart, the casting is right on the money. She is as enchanting and fetching a presence in this as one could ever want, and it is believable that any guy would fall for her no matter the complications or consequences. Too bad in real life we suspect the actress is quite a difficult little witch.

In one shot the modern downtown Los Angeles skyline is glimpsed. Not only did this skyline not exist in the 1980's, any skyline at all was non-existent in the 1930's. Sloppy mistake which should not have been in the frame to begin with, or should have been edited out or digitally fixed which is not too expensive for any legitimate movie nowadays. Small but surprising flaw from an artist of Allen's stature. Then again, all movies have flaws technical and creative and not even masters can achieve absolute perfection in something as arduous as making movies.… Expand
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6
potatoman222Jul 21, 2017
Café Society é um bom filme, tecnicamente impecável com atuações decentes e uma direção precisa, porém, perde o ritmo e peca ao interromper bruscamente o desenvolvimento do longa para dar lugar a uma espécie de filme quase diferente comCafé Society é um bom filme, tecnicamente impecável com atuações decentes e uma direção precisa, porém, perde o ritmo e peca ao interromper bruscamente o desenvolvimento do longa para dar lugar a uma espécie de filme quase diferente com outra locação e personagens.… Expand
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5
MattBrady99May 7, 2021
We live in a Café Society where Bruce Willis actual got fired from a film set (he was suppose to play Steve Carell's character). And yes this is becoming a Bruce Willis **** site now.

The film itself is fine. I mean, when you see one WoodyWe live in a Café Society where Bruce Willis actual got fired from a film set (he was suppose to play Steve Carell's character). And yes this is becoming a Bruce Willis **** site now.

The film itself is fine. I mean, when you see one Woody Allen movie, you've seen them all.… Expand
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7
badgerryan19May 19, 2017
'm not a big fan of Woody Allen but I must say I really enjoyed the movie. Jesse Eisenberg, Kristen Stewart, Steve Carell, and Blake Lively all give great performances. I really must say Kristen is really turning her career around with her'm not a big fan of Woody Allen but I must say I really enjoyed the movie. Jesse Eisenberg, Kristen Stewart, Steve Carell, and Blake Lively all give great performances. I really must say Kristen is really turning her career around with her past couple movies. The visuals are also really great. I really liked the whole love story with the touch of comedy in it. Overall another movie that will not be seen by many and it's a shame.… Expand
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6
smiyamotOct 23, 2016
Another Woody Allen movie, frenetic dialogue (like Woody when he acted) by Jesse Eisenberg, a love triangle, unrequited love, all the themes presented on a backdrop of the Hollywood scene that Woody hates so much, with the promise of aAnother Woody Allen movie, frenetic dialogue (like Woody when he acted) by Jesse Eisenberg, a love triangle, unrequited love, all the themes presented on a backdrop of the Hollywood scene that Woody hates so much, with the promise of a wonderful life in Manhattan, which Woody loves. Is this a semi-autobiographic story? Hmmm, the kid is from a Jewish family in Brooklyn....… Expand
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4
knowmoviesnoseNov 5, 2016
With such a stellar cast, I was pretty disappointed. The dialogue with each of the main characters did nothing for character development whatsoever. It was the most shallow endeavor to display any single body that was on this movie thatWith such a stellar cast, I was pretty disappointed. The dialogue with each of the main characters did nothing for character development whatsoever. It was the most shallow endeavor to display any single body that was on this movie that I've ever seen. I would have to say my favorite Woody Allen movie is "The Curse of the Jade Scorpion" because it developed the main characters through each and every interaction, and a great deal of that was through dialogue, humor, and mystery. This failed short on every aspect to make something interesting just... blah. All of the wardrobe and landscaping for a Woody Allen film may have been there with a few quips and quotes, but the substance was most definitely lacking.… Expand
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6
lucbevibrasilSep 3, 2016
Café Society doesn't get to be one of the masterpieces of Woody Allen, but goes easy to several others that decade, once we feel a greater commitment in this film than in their latest projects. The art direction, photography, costumes andCafé Society doesn't get to be one of the masterpieces of Woody Allen, but goes easy to several others that decade, once we feel a greater commitment in this film than in their latest projects. The art direction, photography, costumes and more inspired performances bring a great personification of the 30's. Speaking of photography, Victorio Storaro delivers an exuberant work in photography. In the end, we found a regular film, but it gives feeling that you've seen it before.… Expand
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3
2morovianNov 4, 2016
If Bobbie's character was supposed to be a direct impersonation of Woody Allen, then his casting and performance were spot on, right down to an utter absence of sexual charisma and the whiny neuroses we've all come to hate after beingIf Bobbie's character was supposed to be a direct impersonation of Woody Allen, then his casting and performance were spot on, right down to an utter absence of sexual charisma and the whiny neuroses we've all come to hate after being hammered with it, over and over again, in most of Allen's films. If this wasn't enough to destroy any chance of this film being even mildly entertaining, then Allen's narration buried it in concrete as permanently as Ben's victims.
This was a total indulgence piece with yet another reworking of the now patent New York vs. L.A. dilemma. Since Allen is clearly trying to hold on to something he has only actually possessed sporadically in his entire career, and has now taken to churning out one mediocre film after another, he's a great candidate for forced retirement. Give us a break, Woody, and at least allow us to remember your works of genius with appreciation instead of regret.… Expand
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5
cnakhlaMar 14, 2017
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Overall this film had some enjoyable moments and was shot thoughtfully by Vittorio Storaro. However, the story felt un-original in its classic Allen 'young attractive girl with older man' framework, yet also satisfying the requisite of the nerdy young man also having the love of the attractive woman. My interpretation was that Allen split himself into two characters in this story. Jessie Eisenberg, so accurately it is annoying, plays the character of a young Woody like that of Annie Hall, he is an unappreciated and lovable 'boy next door' who gains the attraction of Diane Keaton/Kristen Stewart for no apparent or logical reason. While Carrel was playing the older more successful Allen, who is wealthy but loving, and also happens to end up with a beautiful young wife (leaving his older first wife who we never meet). If i didn't know who Allen was or hadn't seen any of his other films then perhaps i would have found this story more interesting. However the stripped down plot of the relationships portrayed were unoriginal and brought nothing new to cinema. For such a renowned film maker, i am still waiting for something more from Woody Allen.… Expand
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7
DawdlingPoetNov 25, 2021
This is an easy watch, with a nice, light, jolly touch to it. It has easy listening/jazz type music played in the background and its quite stylish, with heavy use of orange and yellow colours in the lighting. I liked the character Bobby,This is an easy watch, with a nice, light, jolly touch to it. It has easy listening/jazz type music played in the background and its quite stylish, with heavy use of orange and yellow colours in the lighting. I liked the character Bobby, played by Jesse Eisenberg - Jesse is an ideal person to play the role as Bobby is clearly a quite awkward person, a fish out of the water type (he usually plays such roles). I thought it was a nice watch, although the ocassional narration was a bit distracting and perhaps not entirely necessary.

There is an element of cheese about it but its by no means a bad watch, especially if your keen on the cast (Eisenberg aside, Kristen Stewart and Steve Carrel also star in this film). Its not greatly memorable but its a solid enough watch I thought was quite good and I'd recommend it regardless.… Expand
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