Inside Llewyn Davis
CBS Films | Release Date: December 6, 2013
7.8
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Generally favorable reviews based on 570 Ratings
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10
DarkwingSchmuckJul 27, 2023
A beautiful window into the folk scene of the early 60s and the life of a struggling artist, Inside Lleywn Davis is one of the Coen's most bittersweet films as it navigates through a journey of what if's and missed opportunities.
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1
ZappleOct 26, 2022
Excellent performances, especially Oscar Isaac who actually plays the guitar parts and sings, both very well. However, the script NEVER shows him doing anything good, considerate or successful, only a series of bad decisions and treatment ofExcellent performances, especially Oscar Isaac who actually plays the guitar parts and sings, both very well. However, the script NEVER shows him doing anything good, considerate or successful, only a series of bad decisions and treatment of other people. As a result, this film is dreary from start to depressing end.… Expand
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8
NickTheCritickNov 2, 2021
One of the best Coen's brother movies in the last 10 years, if not the best. This movie about a globe trotter folk sibger is filled of melancholy, nostalgy and really good music. The movie has great shots, great editing and cinematography.One of the best Coen's brother movies in the last 10 years, if not the best. This movie about a globe trotter folk sibger is filled of melancholy, nostalgy and really good music. The movie has great shots, great editing and cinematography. This movie simply makes you breathe folk and you surely have Oscar Isaac at his best here.… Expand
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7
DawdlingPoetNov 24, 2021
First off (unsurprisingly), this film features plenty of traditional folk songs, which are quite light and pleasant, mostly uplifting and cheery in tone. Think acoustic guitar and mid-range vocals.

Colour and lighting wise, this film isFirst off (unsurprisingly), this film features plenty of traditional folk songs, which are quite light and pleasant, mostly uplifting and cheery in tone. Think acoustic guitar and mid-range vocals.

Colour and lighting wise, this film is fairly dark. I thought early on that it seemed ironic for a film about folk music to be set in such an urban setting as New York City, with the underground train system and run down housing estates (or 'condo's' as they say in the US). I liked that it clearly portrayed people wishing to be in a different neighbourhood, expressing their dreams (the American Dream of sorts, I suppose you could argue) in such an optimistic way and in doing so, gives back to the local community. It has a very 'insular' feel to it and some scenes could perhaps be seen as a bit claustrophobic, in as much as they feature very narrow walls which are dimly lit (which yes, could be seen as ironic, or coincidental).

Plot pace wise, this film has quite a slow pace, thus it won't appeal to everyone. I think it reflects the lack of direction I presume people in such neighbourhoods feel.

Content wise, there is a lot of strong language (which is barely surprising given its a Coen brothers film) and some moderate violence, plus some sex references. This film carries a 15 rating to reflect this.

As far as the genre is concerned, this film features plenty of folk music, with some poignant lyrics but I wouldn't go so far as to say that its a musical, its more of a music based slow paced, character drama.

I felt that this film covered themes such as multi-culturalism, social deprivation, abortions and general community spirit I suppose. The characters were quite interesting, so I felt anyway, such as the rather flamobyant Roland Turner, played by John Goodman. He comes across as loudmouthed and obnoxious but he has something of an intriguing side to him, as he seems to have a high social standing, or certainly he believes he does anyway. He's a bully but also somehow an intriguing character. Other characters include Jim, a friend of Llewyns, played by Justin Timberlake and Jean, played by Carey Mulligan. The title character Llewyn is played by Oscar Isaac. He comes across as quite an introvert - a reserved, fairly quiet and unassuming sort. His guitar playing is quite impressive, his personality coming across when he sings the various folk songs. I did feel sorry for his character, given his situation and what happens in the (though slow) plot. He seemed very much like an underdog character, trying to better himself. There is some relatively amusing, if but very dark and dry, comedy present in the dialogue, from time to time. There is also some poignant dialogue as well, although that is perhaps a little sparse. While this is a relatively dark film in both tone and lighting regards, the music present helps to keep it from being overly bleak somehow and I did feel that there was something of a heart to it, if that makes any sense? the characters seemed fairly believable and 'real' somehow. I'd imagine that nowadays quite a few people could relate to the characters in this tale - it felt somewhat like a moral tale, a tale of the time it was set in (the 1960s) but which is also relevant to the present day as well.

Yes I'd recommend this film, if it sounds of interest to you. Its a good music based drama film, although the plot is quite slow, so it may bore some people. The soundtrack is good and its only about an hour and 40 minutes long, so its not one of the longer films that the Coen brothers have made. This is quite a subtle film - I think thats perhaps the best way to put it(?) and as such I reckon its worth a watch.… Expand
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9
wayne_poshJul 26, 2021
Inside Llewyn Davis offers a seemingly bleak yet realistic view of what it takes to break into show business. Within its runtime, the film puts on centerstage a struggling, talented musician and slowly chisels away at him revealing his raw,Inside Llewyn Davis offers a seemingly bleak yet realistic view of what it takes to break into show business. Within its runtime, the film puts on centerstage a struggling, talented musician and slowly chisels away at him revealing his raw, flawed soul.

The Coen Brothers are known for their ability to tell stories about criminals, would-be criminals, and ex-criminals with a lightness and humor that seems to contradict their character entirely. While Oscar Isaac’s Llewyn Davis is not a criminal, he does embody many of the unfavorable and unsavory qualities an audience may not typically find sympathy for. But Isaac’s performance along with the Coens’ dialogue create a shadow of a once-thriving man now forced to bum cigarettes, sleep on couches and survive on the good graces of his closest friends. A third act revelation helps to explain his downward trajectory and almost entirely justifies every bad choice he’s made up until that point. For much of the movie, Isaac is playing opposite a heart-felt and surprisingly funny performance by Carey Mulligan as well as an appropriately subdued Justin Timberlake. They act as both his enablers by encouraging his transient lifestyle and provide for one of his biggest conflicts in the film. From start to finish, the audience feels Llewyn Davis’ motivation, heartache and ultimately his self-realization.

Fans of the Coens’ usual fare will take to this film instantly. But anyone unfamiliar with their work will find a thoughtful, gripping story that act as an analogy to anyone’s unfulfilled dream.… Expand
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6
geewahJan 15, 2021
One of the Coen brothers more sombre efforts and one of their worst.
I found this a hard movie to get any sort of emotional attachment to Isaac's character and for that couldn't really care about his plight.
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9
Calcal18Oct 26, 2020
Nice movie, Cohen brothers are one of my favourites. Humour, touching and just all around good/fun movie
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10
hecsMay 12, 2020
An amazing movie that disects on important topics like self identify and purpose in an authentic way due to a phenomenal performance from Oscar Issac, as well as a great screenplay and amazing cinematography. Downhearted but genuine, weAn amazing movie that disects on important topics like self identify and purpose in an authentic way due to a phenomenal performance from Oscar Issac, as well as a great screenplay and amazing cinematography. Downhearted but genuine, we rarely see movies like these anymore. The Coen Brothers showing once again that they can make an amazing immersive film. This movie is as close as you can get to perfect.… Expand
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3
annbdDec 29, 2019
Not really sure about the message of the movie, no plot twist, nothing really much happening. Just a ordinary life story about a arrogant musician, who thinks himself of something so special and is also lazy and not willing to work. So theNot really sure about the message of the movie, no plot twist, nothing really much happening. Just a ordinary life story about a arrogant musician, who thinks himself of something so special and is also lazy and not willing to work. So the movie represents a part, period of his life. I don’t see where the “must see” is.… Expand
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10
MahmusOct 3, 2019
Oscar Issac gives the best performance of his career in my personal favorite movie of all time.
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10
LucasTSSep 23, 2019
In the pre-Civil War United States, Solomon Northup, a free black man living in upstate New York, is abducted and sold into slavery.
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0
zedzdedSep 8, 2019
this movie has nothing going for it. as a portrait of a mediocre aimless artist it fulfills its brief but the downside is that it's aimless and mediocre to watch and not aimless in a fun big lebowski way. i love the coen brother's earlythis movie has nothing going for it. as a portrait of a mediocre aimless artist it fulfills its brief but the downside is that it's aimless and mediocre to watch and not aimless in a fun big lebowski way. i love the coen brother's early work but this movie and a few other recent ones give me the impression they are sliding into mediocrity with little to say. tragic.… Expand
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7
TyranianSep 1, 2019
Coen brothers deliver another very entertaining film with good acting and good writing.
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10
imthenoobNov 25, 2016
Hats off to the talented cast who have given us on the best movie soundtracks in a very long time. As always, Oscar Isaac kills it as the lead and his supporting cast does a great job too. This movie has been a personal favourite of mine forHats off to the talented cast who have given us on the best movie soundtracks in a very long time. As always, Oscar Isaac kills it as the lead and his supporting cast does a great job too. This movie has been a personal favourite of mine for years and it still lives up no matter how many times I rewatch it.… Expand
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8
GrantD243Feb 1, 2019
Inside Llewyn Davis follows a folk singer as he struggles to make it in an industry that doesn't place much value on folk singers. This film has incredible music, a great script, and next level acting. The story is relatable and sorrowful,Inside Llewyn Davis follows a folk singer as he struggles to make it in an industry that doesn't place much value on folk singers. This film has incredible music, a great script, and next level acting. The story is relatable and sorrowful, but there's also a lot of humor throughout the film as well. Unfortunately, though, the story didn't grip me quite as tightly as I was hoping. If I felt how I think I should have when the credits rolled, this would easily be one of my favorite films that I've watched in a long time. But somewhere along the way it lost my attention a little bit, and while I still enjoyed it and look forward to watching it again sometime and maybe gaining a different perspective, I don't think it's quite as good as a lot of other people say it is.… Expand
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10
AkshayPrabhakarOct 31, 2018
Inside llewyn davis turns out to be the best of the visionary filmmakers Coen brothers so far. It is intentionally depressing and captivating to an extent that it leaves you with an uncomfortable numbness. gem of a movie and not to forget theInside llewyn davis turns out to be the best of the visionary filmmakers Coen brothers so far. It is intentionally depressing and captivating to an extent that it leaves you with an uncomfortable numbness. gem of a movie and not to forget the mesmerizing cinematography… Expand
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9
paperaquariumSep 6, 2018
I'm a sucker for the 60s folk scene, and I actually heard the (btw excellent) soundtrack before I watched the film. Llewyn's character was very relatable, and there was a perfect balance between humour and the otherwise kinda depressingI'm a sucker for the 60s folk scene, and I actually heard the (btw excellent) soundtrack before I watched the film. Llewyn's character was very relatable, and there was a perfect balance between humour and the otherwise kinda depressing story. As expected, the Coen brothers did a great job and this is probably my second favourite of theirs behing TBL… Expand
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10
The3AcademySinsAug 22, 2018
Inside Llewyn Davis is one of those rare character studies that goes so far into the character study that it becomes an examination of the human soul itself. Llewyn is played incredibly well by Oscar Isaac in what is definitely his bestInside Llewyn Davis is one of those rare character studies that goes so far into the character study that it becomes an examination of the human soul itself. Llewyn is played incredibly well by Oscar Isaac in what is definitely his best performance, and Llewyn is a character you won't soon forget. Llewyn is so interesting because his tale isn't actually the tale of a folk singer trying to make it big (it is for sure) but it is really the story of a man who can't get over the suicide of his best friend. His actions and songs are heartwrenching and thought-provoking. The cinematography and soundtrack are some of the best I have seen in film. The Cohen Brothers really knocked this one out of the park, and it is a must-see.… Expand
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9
ahmedaiman9999Apr 27, 2018
It's so funny, it's so smart, it's so profound, it's so bleak, it's a pure Coen Brothers' gem!

(9/10)
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7
amheretojudgeJan 16, 2018
i'm gonna change it, legally..

Inside Llewyn Davis

Ethan and Joel seems a bit distracted somewhere in the middle through a brief period of time but then comes back with more than anticipated and leaves you mesmerized in the end.
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0
MooviesNGamesJan 12, 2018
One of the most overrated garbage films I've ever seen. Incredibly boring, depressing, unfunny and pretentious. I'm a big Coen Bros fan but this totally missed the mark with me. Incredibly overrated.
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8
JLuis_001Sep 7, 2017
This is a Coen movie, from everywhere you see it, it is true that they have not been so fine lately but this movie is a rebirth for them. I honestly recommend it with enthusiasm, an excellent choice any day.
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6
LukehatJul 3, 2017
I like that there wasn't a happy ever after ending. Just a guy getting by. It wasn't that enthralling, and the music isn't for my taste, but I enjoyed seeing the story of a 'failure' as opposed to the 'hero'.
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9
alejandro970May 28, 2017
Brilliant Oscar Isaac in the shoes of a talent but hapless, pennyless and starving sort of Bob Dylan. A smart voew to world of music, particullarly the folk genre. The songs are a full delight.
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10
DirectorCriticsApr 15, 2017
My fave Coen brothers movie , with a great script, great characters , and great soundtrack, inside llewyn is such a beautiful film with a beautiful photography.
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6
Benkoko11Feb 23, 2017
The Coen bro's melancholic ode to the American folk age is anchored by its soundtrack and Isaac's memorable performance but often falls into the familiar tropes of the agitated struggling artist.
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9
TokyochuchuDec 30, 2016
Inside LLewyn Davis is an excellent film. Expertly acted and beautifully shot, it's brilliant movie about sinking slowly into despair. It's a heavy watch that will weigh on your soul but it's undeniably fantastic film making.
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9
DanBurritoJul 17, 2016
Bleak, soulful and powerfully acted, Inside Llewyn Davis is not only one of the Coens' best movies, it's also quite possibly the best movie of 2013. Oscar Isaac leads the cast with a performance so mesmerising, it's a mystery as to why heBleak, soulful and powerfully acted, Inside Llewyn Davis is not only one of the Coens' best movies, it's also quite possibly the best movie of 2013. Oscar Isaac leads the cast with a performance so mesmerising, it's a mystery as to why he wasn't nominated for an Oscar. The supporting cast, particularly John Goodman, also turn in fantastic performances. The production design, as one would expect from a Coens film, was amazing. There were plenty of memorable songs (my favourite being "Please, Mr. Kennedy") and great dialouge. Keep in mind, it's not always easy to watch- after all, the central theme of it is failure- but nevertheless, it's still a great movie, highly recommended to fans of the Coen Brothers' previous work.… Expand
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9
EpicLadySpongeApr 30, 2016
Inside Llewyn Davis is a perfect example of how we take CBS Films to make Inside Llewyn Davis to make 2013 end with a lot of great movies like this one.
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10
MovieMasterEddyApr 3, 2016
Llewyn Davis is having a bad few days, even a bad week. Or maybe just one very bad night. As “Inside Llewyn Davis” opens, the title character, a folk singer in Greenwich Village, holds a Gaslight Cafe audience spellbound with a hushed,Llewyn Davis is having a bad few days, even a bad week. Or maybe just one very bad night. As “Inside Llewyn Davis” opens, the title character, a folk singer in Greenwich Village, holds a Gaslight Cafe audience spellbound with a hushed, perfectly studied rendition of the traditional tune “Hang Me, Oh Hang Me.” The year is 1961, when the Village folk scene was on the verge of transforming from a hermetic community of purists to a tourist destination where dilettantes could gawk at commodified Beats and their “new ethnic” successors. The adamantly uncommercial Llewyn is having none of it, preferring the scuffed patina of unassailable — and impoverished — artistic purity.

As embodied by the gifted actor and singer Oscar Isaac in a poignant, mesmerizing breakout performance, Llewyn emerges as an improbably sympathetic anti-hero in “Inside Llewyn Davis,” written and directed by Joel and Ethan Coen in a tender, startlingly straight-faced departure from their established house style of cool, ironic distance. Not that they’ve entirely abandoned their signature sharp edges and jokes confected like cookies full of arsenic: “Inside Llewyn Davis” is full of lacerating, often profane speechifying, much of it darkly funny and most of it directed at the long-suffering, compulsively self-sabotaging Llewyn, who sourly returns the verbal abuse in kind.

That bitterness notwithstanding, an unmistakably forgiving, even wistful air pervades “Inside Llewyn Davis” that feels new to the Coen canon, an abiding compassion that elevates their protagonist from an object of derisive pity to an avatar — not just of his own era, but of ours. Like so many of the characters in movies this year — from Bruce Dern’s bereft retiree in “Nebraska” to Tom Hanks’s “Captain Phillips” and Robert Redford’s nameless sailor in “All Is Lost” — Llewyn Davis can see that his era is passing, threatening to make him a casualty in its inexorable wake. He’s smart enough to see that the times are a-changin’. He’s self-aware enough to know that he won’t be changing with them.

But for the few days depicted in “Inside Llewyn Davis,” he at least struggles, if not always valiantly. In a series of encounters with family, friends, ex-lovers, fellow musicians and impresarios, Llewyn — who is loosely based on the late folk singer Dave Van Ronk — is put through a classic test of character, with every impulsive choice sealing his ultimate fate. Navigating an archipelago of narrow corridors and fusty downtown couches, Llewyn argues with a sometime friend, Jean (Carey Mulligan), who with her husband, Jim (Justin Timberlake), is part of a wholesome folkie duo; he sits in on a session for a tacky novelty record called “Please Mr. Kennedy”; he alienates well-meaning Upper West Side supporters and early-music fans. He cadges a ride to Chicago, where he hopes to audition for club owner and manager Bud Grossman, tone-perfectly portrayed by F. Murray Abraham, whose pronouncement “I don’t see a lot of money here” reverberates in his empty club like the clang of a descending guillotine.

That road trip west could have been scripted by Jack Kerouac himself, Llewyn’s car mates consisting of a self-important jazz musician and pompous pontificator, played with suitably wheezy grandiosity by John Goodman, and a vaguely Neal Cassady-esque driver played by Garrett Hedlund, who conveniently played Cassady in “On the Road” just last year. (Real-life folk figures Tom Paxton, the Clancy Brothers and Peter, Paul and Mary are evoked even more explicitly in the Coens’ script.)

Throughout the journey, Llewyn keeps playing, with Isaac lending his assured, clear voice to such folk standards as “Fare Thee Well (Dink’s Song)” and “The Death of Queen Jane,” often in their gratifying entirety. (The music was arranged and produced by T Bone Burnett.) As diverting as Llewyn’s travels are, and as revelatory his encounters with the eccentrics and charismatic oddballs (we haven’t even mentioned the cat yet), it’s pure sensory pleasure that vaults “Inside Llewyn Davis” into the pantheon of great Coen Brothers movies, from Bruno Delbonnel’s wintry, desaturated cinematography to the music that rings with high, lonesome longing and regret.

“Inside Llewyn Davis” lends itself to near-endless exegesis and interpretation, from its atmospheric excavation of the insular, occasionally overlapping worlds of 1960s New York to authenticity as both fetish and Olympian ideal.

This soulful, unabashedly lyrical film is best enjoyed by sinking into it like a sweet, sad dream. When you wake up, a mythical place and time will have disappeared forever. But you’ll know that attention — briefly, beautifully — has been paid.… Expand
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10
ReelViews94Mar 23, 2016
Bob Dylan’s “Positively 4th Street” easily could have been about the parasitic, untrustworthy, unreliable, moderately talented screw-up at the heart of the Coen brothers’ enthralling Inside Llewyn Davis. Set in, but not comprehensively about,Bob Dylan’s “Positively 4th Street” easily could have been about the parasitic, untrustworthy, unreliable, moderately talented screw-up at the heart of the Coen brothers’ enthralling Inside Llewyn Davis. Set in, but not comprehensively about, the Greenwich Village folk music scene circa 1961, this is a gorgeously made character study leavened with surrealistic dimensions both comic and dark, an unsparing look at a young man who, unlike some of his contemporaries, can’t transcend his abundant character flaws and remake himself as someone else. Closer to some of the Coens’ smaller films such as Barton Fink and A Serious Man than to breakouts including O Brother, Where Art Thou? and No Country for Old Men, the French-financed CBS Films pickup nonetheless is a singular work by the protean filmmaking team.

Although played out to some extent in the clubs on Bleecker Street during a period that has acquired legendary status, the idiosyncratic original screenplay is far more concerned with the title character’s neuroses, aggravated lack of self-awareness and inability to turn his limitations to his artistic benefit. And while music permeates the film, viewers expecting a film a clef featuring lightly fictionalized versions of embryonic music all-stars will have to make an adjustment.

Like Bob Zimmerman, the Coen brothers were born and grew up in Minnesota and moved to New York City. Drawn to the milieu that attracted the musical poet but resisting the obvious temptation to make a film about him, the Coens have created a fictional character who could be said to be the guy who did not become Dylan but could have — save for some crucial talent and character issues. These are amusingly but more often cringingly illustrated in the course of the film, a strange odyssey that continually keeps you off balance as it darts and careens down assorted desolate streets and dark alleys of the human condition.

One’s natural instinct to be drawn to a story’s leading character is dashed here in a manner so merciless as to push into darkly comic sadism. A gorgeous opening scene at the Gaslight Cafe, where Llewyn Davis (Oscar Isaac) sings a bleak song about being hanged, abruptly is followed by Llewyn getting the crap beaten out of him for reasons the singer doesn’t understand.

Still, no amount of personal misfortune can explain or justify why the 30ish Llewyn, whose good looks are undercut by a general dumpiness, treats his friends so shabbily. A running motif is his constant need for a place to crash; an unabashed starving-artist type, Llewyn bounces around between the apartment of Columbia scholars the Gorfeins (Ethan Phillips, Robin Barrett); a room at the home of his resentful sister (Jeanine Serralles); a sofa at the Village pad of singer Jean (Carey Mulligan), who’s furious at him and is going with her musical partner Jim (Justin Timberlake); and any other likely suspect, such as singer Al Cody (Adam Driver), a big-city Jew affecting a cowboy persona.

Explicitly presented but not discussed, the Jewish involvement in the music scene is highlighted in a way that cannot be ignored and constantly echoes the satirical tone of the brothers’ splendid A Serious Man, which also centered on a man who gets little other than bad news. The worst comes from Jean, who justifiably shrieks at him for the carelessness that got her pregnant (she actually isn’t sure who the culprit is) and demands he arrange an illegal abortion for her. Not even a cat is safe in Llewyn’s care; asked by the Gorfeins to tend to their tabby, the schmuck lets him escape, prompting some agonizing chases through town involving outstanding direction of a feline.

But the work’s core and most brilliant filmmaking, as stunning and singular as anything in the Coens’ canon, is embodied in what initially feels like a tangent that, among other things, can be viewed as a deadpan satire on the whole “on the road” ethos of the period, right down to the casting of Dean Moriarty himself, Garrett Hedlund, as the mostly mute driver on a hitchhiking trip Llewyn makes to Chicago. With John Goodman’s sarcastic raconteur Roland Turner splayed across the back seat like a malignant combination of Henry VIII and Orson Welles in Touch of Evil, the trip proceeds into a surrealistic twilight zone. Although not decisive, the trip does present the artist with a defining moment the viewer is free to ignore or accept as the truth about what’s “inside” Llewyn Davis.

Visually, the Coens get along fine, thank you, without their habitual cinematographer Roger Deakins, as Bruno Delbonnel creates a succession of lustrous images. The Coens and their executive music producer T Bone Burnett have dug deep to create a fresh, resonant folk soundtrack.

An outstanding fictional take on the early 1960s folk music scene from the Coen Brothers.… Expand
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9
FiniteFreistenAug 14, 2015
it was something could change something inside of you . the music was coming up and growing up at any stage that made you even watch some scene again .
thank you coens
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8
PeterAlexanderAug 11, 2015
The Coen Brothers demonstrate the harsh reality of life as a 1960s folk musician to perfection. Oscar Isaac presents a grim depiction of the entertainment industry through the portrayal of Llewyn Davis. The film maintains a sad yet beautifulThe Coen Brothers demonstrate the harsh reality of life as a 1960s folk musician to perfection. Oscar Isaac presents a grim depiction of the entertainment industry through the portrayal of Llewyn Davis. The film maintains a sad yet beautiful tone from start to finish, presenting audiences with a story that will have them questioning many functions of both our society and the life they live individually.… Expand
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7
jppl1999Jul 31, 2015
The movie is not bad. It is all about Isaac's recreation of a single folk artist who wants to start again a successful career. The problem is that the singer is "stuck", same as the movie at some point. It is a vicious circle; and for me,The movie is not bad. It is all about Isaac's recreation of a single folk artist who wants to start again a successful career. The problem is that the singer is "stuck", same as the movie at some point. It is a vicious circle; and for me, limits its potential for what could be a great film.… Expand
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10
ClubsocialMay 4, 2015
ore. You can tell all of her songs came from the heart. The only thing that I have to say is that I don't think "Run The World (Girls)" fits into the album AT ALL. Other than that, the album is flawle
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9
MattBrady99Mar 13, 2015
Ethan Coen and Joel Coen has to be two masterclass director's and writers in movie media, and I said that back in my older reviews of these two.

The story to Inside Llewyn Davis is about a trip through New York's folk music scene in theEthan Coen and Joel Coen has to be two masterclass director's and writers in movie media, and I said that back in my older reviews of these two.

The story to Inside Llewyn Davis is about a trip through New York's folk music scene in the 1960s as a singer-songwriter does his best to make it through these times.

Every time the Coen brothers release a new movie I always expect something great from them as they other films never let me down and always top my exception. With Inside Llewyn Davis it's a road trip film with little comedy this and there, and once again the Coen brothers showed off how talent they truly are, because this movie is freaking fantastic.

I have to be honest here but I didn't know who Oscar Isaac was before watching this movie. I couple of times I heard someone brought up his name but that's it really, didn't know who he was so when I watched this movie my first thought when I saw his acting and singing was "I want to see him in more films", because this guy is just brilliant and I'm a bit disappointing of myself for not seeing his other films in the past. His character can come off a bit of a douche at times but he played the role so well and breath so much life into it that I actually liked him, all because of Oscar Isaac.

The directing and the writing by the Coen brothers and do I need say more, I'm running out of things to say about this two masters of filmmakers. The movie is was written really well and once again I'm can't find anything else to say of what I ready said before in my other past reviews. The songs in this movie are probably some of the best music I've heard in a while and it was really catcher as well.

I love the way this film looks, you know that bright, clean looking and gorgeous to look at cinematography that stands out. The cinematography in this movie is just utterly spectacular. every shot looks like it took forever to get the perfect shot and a lot of hard work went into this to get, but the people who did the cinematography in this movie pulled it off perfectly and no wonder they got a Oscar nomination for it.

My only small little nick pick with the film is the John Goodman character (Roland Turner) Now don't get me wrong I like John Goodman has a actor and as a person , but I didn't feel like he fitted in the film, that might just be me but his character just kind of show up and then goes and never brought up again.

Overall Inside Llewyn Davis is a fanatic drama peace with a lot of amazing things to experience in this film.… Expand
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8
oDjentoDec 19, 2014
This film you could never say is amazing exactly, but it's a very pleasant film that you can easily enjoy. Even though the main character goes through a lot of hardships you still end up finding the viewing gentle and easy to consume. TheThis film you could never say is amazing exactly, but it's a very pleasant film that you can easily enjoy. Even though the main character goes through a lot of hardships you still end up finding the viewing gentle and easy to consume. The film doesn't really end up going anywhere, but in all honesty it's not that bad a thing. It chronicles a week for this folk singer, and not all people come to some sort of conclusion at the end of their week! However, davis is a dick for leaving thw cat in the car, almost made me want to put this film down to a 6/7! Performances are also good, and also the film comes with trademark Coen brother humour and direction that make the film recognisable in that aspect and also enjoyable. Give it a wath one night when you're feeling up for something not too heavy to watch.… Expand
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8
JBBuDec 17, 2014
INSIDE LLEWYN DAVIS is an intriguing character study loosely based on folk cult figure Dave Van Ronk. It uses anecdotes from this life, and includes signature songs such as "Hang Me, Hang Me" and "Dink's Songs". The occasional right wingedINSIDE LLEWYN DAVIS is an intriguing character study loosely based on folk cult figure Dave Van Ronk. It uses anecdotes from this life, and includes signature songs such as "Hang Me, Hang Me" and "Dink's Songs". The occasional right winged politics in this movie are the polar opposite's of Ronk's progressive-left stance, however. In typical Hollywood propaganda style they make unions look like the thuggish con men (not that they don't exist, but this stereotype is highly exaggerated often for political purposes). I loved the surreal ride to Chicago and back. It is an excellent slice of life film.… Expand
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7
JalemanyDec 9, 2014
I had fun watching this film. I liked the music and the village looks great. The winter is cold and the acting is good. Sure. But really, what is all this over praising about? where is the the criteria of these critics that refer to this asI had fun watching this film. I liked the music and the village looks great. The winter is cold and the acting is good. Sure. But really, what is all this over praising about? where is the the criteria of these critics that refer to this as one of the best representations of the misery of artistry? Are they afraid of being considered un-intellectual? Have they ever looked overseas for other ways of representing art?… Expand
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5
pesho_oneNov 24, 2014
Really an average movie with no actual ending. The writers should be ashamed by themselves (I realize that they are probably proud with themselves instead). Yes, it is shot well, and I watched it till the end, while still intrigued. It didn'tReally an average movie with no actual ending. The writers should be ashamed by themselves (I realize that they are probably proud with themselves instead). Yes, it is shot well, and I watched it till the end, while still intrigued. It didn't get too boring during. But it is totally pointless after all. They teach even the children that every story should have a proper ending. Apparently the directors are too big to bother with such. Most of the branches of the story are not finished either. To try explaining it better: imagine somebody is telling a story and you are interested by all the things starting to develop in it. And you expect it all adds up and mix together. But when the story is finished, you realize that all of these "interesting" things didn't actually go anywhere. And the only indication for the finish is that it suddenly stopped. Major BS if you ask me.… Expand
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5
ArchonMagazineSep 20, 2014
Inside Llewyn Davis is a depressing comedy, a glimpse into a struggling folk singer’s life during one week in the 1960’s.

The first half of the movie is slow as Llewyn ping pongs around the Village and New York, causing disruptionInside Llewyn Davis is a depressing comedy, a glimpse into a struggling folk singer’s life during one week in the 1960’s.

The first half of the movie is slow as Llewyn ping pongs around the Village and New York, causing disruption everywhere he goes. Oscar Isaac unflinchingly plays the dislikeable title character a, sincere to a fault because it impedes upon his ability to be successful, freeloading folk singer newly solo due to the suicide of his duo partner Mike. Frustrated, dejected and broke, he leaves on a road trip to Chicago and the story’s components converge to a chaotic culmination one expects from an Ethan and Joel Coen film.

Teeming with talent and thoroughly Coen, the movie is full of quirky characters of a beatnik persuasion. Unfortunately, with the rare exception, most portrayals are forgettable – Carey Mulligan, John Goodman, and Garret Hedlund included. Justin Timberlake is ultimately the least successful of the bunch and his casting is a misstep. His acting is an out of place self-aware parody of a folk singer from the 1960’s. With the exception of Oscar Isaac, Adam Driver, whom most know as the love interest of Lena Dunham’s character in Girls, is hilariously sincere and scene stealing in the minor role of Al Cody.

Inside Llewyn Davis contains all the successful ingredients typical of a Coen Brothers motion picture but is lacking the charm that typically enamors viewers. It is artificially bleak, reliant upon post-production, and fundamentally contrived.

More reviews of recent releases can be found at our website.… Expand
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8
HamushySep 5, 2014
The Coen brothers latest release Inside Llewyn Davis blends together many of the elements that have proved a success for them in various earlier works. A lack of redeemable characters, their signature dark offbeat humor, no apparent narrativeThe Coen brothers latest release Inside Llewyn Davis blends together many of the elements that have proved a success for them in various earlier works. A lack of redeemable characters, their signature dark offbeat humor, no apparent narrative and a very special genre of music in the soundtrack. The year is 1961 and Llewyn Davis is a struggling folk-singer who used to be part of a somewhat successful duo and is now trying to get his break as a solo artist. He's also a homeless drifter, who sleeps on whatever sofa becomes available and he's without a steady income. The film certainly paints the picture of rougher times, which produced big dreamers and resulted in deeper music with true passion.

Oscar Isaac deserves a lot of recognition not only for his acting, but just as much or even more so for his singing with which he even outperforms a big artist like, Justin Timberlake. I was amazed by how full of soul his singing actually was and how authentic his performance as Llewyn Davis was. Timberlakes acting performance is quite good in this film and his portrayal of a more conforming folk-singer named, Jim Berkley was great. Carey Mulligan has the role of Jim's highly cynical and very fiery wife and John Goodman plays an aged, eccentric Jazz musician named, Roland Turner. These two bring such dedicated and ranged performances to their roles and since this is really a character-based film the Coens have made sure that even the smallest part becomes a memorable character. The film follows Llewyn for a week and lets the viewer get to know him increasingly as he gets in to odd situations filled with the Coens signature offbeat humor, but Llewyn is a character who never really takes the moral, rational or admirable decisions, which should make him very hard to care for. The strange thing is that I still did as I got more and more engaged in Llewyns plight and that is what makes the film great in a very unconventional way.… Expand
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6
beingryanjudeSep 2, 2014
Breathtaking musical performances of nearly forgotten folk tunes... a week in the life of a hopeful folk singer might not be what we expected but it still certainly has that Coen Brothers zest.
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2
NitishAug 20, 2014
This is f**king disaster. I have seen movies which are hugely meaningless, pointless, worthless, boring and irritating but this movie crossed every f**king limit..!!
Let start from the driving scene, what the hell that 20 minutes are allThis is f**king disaster. I have seen movies which are hugely meaningless, pointless, worthless, boring and irritating but this movie crossed every f**king limit..!!
Let start from the driving scene, what the hell that 20 minutes are all about..??
And the End of the movie, what the hell, i was so desperately expecting to happen something good to happen with that person but No, not a single good thing..!!
What the hell that Cat doing in the movie and why his dad was introduced...?
This movie really really had given me cancer..!!… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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7
SpangleAug 15, 2014
Another solid entry into the Coen Brothers' extensive filmography, Inside Llewyn Davis is a very pleasant and enjoyable look into the life of a fictional folk musician in 1960s New York. Oscar Isaac is phenomenal in the lead role and CareyAnother solid entry into the Coen Brothers' extensive filmography, Inside Llewyn Davis is a very pleasant and enjoyable look into the life of a fictional folk musician in 1960s New York. Oscar Isaac is phenomenal in the lead role and Carey Mulligan, Justin Timberlake, and John Goodman, all stand out as some of the good supporting performances, in particular Mulligan, who really killed it. The music is also very good here and the fact that they are also results of the actors actually singing them is all the more impressive. The cinematography here is also splendid and I, in particular, really enjoyed the slight blue filter. It really captures the mood well and it simply looks really good and gives this one a distinctive look. The plot is simplistic, but very interesting and it feels entirely authentic to the times and the life lived by musicians at the time. Overall, Inside Llewyn Davis is a solid little film that is not, as a whole, great or very good, but it is very easy to watch and even easier to enjoy.… Expand
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9
kasperlovborgJul 26, 2014
Delightful and dark. Perfect shots and imperfect, albeit highly memorable, characters. That's the Coens for you. Every frame oozes confidence. And why shouldn't they be confident? I'm pretty sure they can do anything. Except fail, that is.Delightful and dark. Perfect shots and imperfect, albeit highly memorable, characters. That's the Coens for you. Every frame oozes confidence. And why shouldn't they be confident? I'm pretty sure they can do anything. Except fail, that is. I'm also fairly confident that if anybody else had directed this it would've turned out somewhat mediocre. The brothers' mastery of craft, command of tone, as well as their playfulness - all of it makes up for a plot as meandering as their roaming protagonist.… Expand
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9
chwJul 18, 2014
Inside Llewyn Davis was the first Coen brothers movie I ever saw that they wrote themselves, so I was kind of surprised of the style they used in this film. Although, Inside Llewyn Davis was still a good movie.
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10
ibbsteJul 6, 2014
The Most Brutally Honest Artists' Statement in Modern Cinema

I think the Coen brothers' most profound gift is their ability to translate any message, text, or emotion to film. To me, INSIDE LLEWYN DAVIS is so special because of its brutalThe Most Brutally Honest Artists' Statement in Modern Cinema

I think the Coen brothers' most profound gift is their ability to translate any message, text, or emotion to film. To me, INSIDE LLEWYN DAVIS is so special because of its brutal honesty of what it looks like, for most people, to pursue your artistic dream. And it's a damn shame. We see people come and go every day with the talent of Llewyn Davis, the titular character at the heart of the film, but through a very distinctly Coen combination of situation, lack of luck, and very particular misjudgments throughout the course of his life prevent him from ever reaching the reputation he may or may not have deserved (but could very well have reached it under different circumstances, which is the larger point).

Oscar Isaac completely disappears into his performance as Llewyn Davis, someone who may appear as a very average person in the streets of New York who has as many dreams and ambition as anyone else. But he's not a perfect person — he doesn't have the foresight or moral flexibility it might have taken for him to have made a more comfortable living out of the passion of his life. Oscar is able to wear this character like a perfectly fit glove, but he made it fit; years from now, people will be wondering why he wasn't aptly recognized for this work in his own time. The performance itself is an intricate, if modest, masterpiece.

Another strength of the Coens' is their ability to bring out the best of their cinematographers. The camerawork from Bruno Delbonnel will, at any given moment, visually clue the audience into the place, position, and state of mind into this central character's mindset through color, focus, framing, and detail. Cinema is, first and foremost, a visual medium; and, as such, both Joel and Ethan Coen know what director of photography to trust most to convey the thousands of words they have to say with each frame.

Finally, what makes this more than a worthy look is the work of Mr. T-Bone Burnett himself. The soundtrack of this film is easily the best in the world of music in its year and helps this film to transcend into a world of poetic irony that has little else but the decibel of its own understated 60s-era East Village earnestness to cry out with.

The Coen brothers themselves tend to seem like shy and introverted individuals. And it's only them who could have painted such a rich and painfully honest portrait with the very artistry they excel at. This is a look at art that crosses every possible medium. The Coens are asking us, "how many geniuses have slipped through the crack? What kind of beauty has been made in any field that I've never been privileged enough to experience? Are we ever really at the ends of the spectrum of possibility of the art we so enjoy to indulge in when such brilliant voices can never quite break through?" It's almost a message of humility — that their ability to tell this man's story is the minimum they can offer back to their audiences for the good fortune they themselves have had to be able to tell such stories in the first place. And, appropriately, they've crafted a film that wasn't properly appreciated by their own successful peers in its own time. The truthful tone will turn many audiences off from its message, but INSIDE LLEWYN DAVIS is one of the most essential film offerings of the new millennium thus far.… Expand
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1
BithersJul 4, 2014
Big coen brothers fan and truly this is not up to the par with their other films. The character's journey is not very interesting, the arc, the tempo, it's feels like a bad version of groundhog day, but you are living in the depressed mind ofBig coen brothers fan and truly this is not up to the par with their other films. The character's journey is not very interesting, the arc, the tempo, it's feels like a bad version of groundhog day, but you are living in the depressed mind of an individual. There is literally no story here… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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10
cylackJul 3, 2014
After seeing claptrap like the recent Transformers movie, what a joy it was to see this film. To me, this wasn't about the folk scene in the 1960's; it was biting social commentary on success in America. The Coens message is that sometimesAfter seeing claptrap like the recent Transformers movie, what a joy it was to see this film. To me, this wasn't about the folk scene in the 1960's; it was biting social commentary on success in America. The Coens message is that sometimes the talented and best don't prevail. If you ever wonder why the talentless hacks make it in whatever field, watch this movie. Very entertaining, could not stop watching it. Beautifully shot, and the music was great too. I don't get the negative reviews for this film. This is complex storytelling and its not meant for people who need immediate gratification or everything spelled out for them.… Expand
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9
Pablo22May 11, 2014
My Inside Llewyn Davis review

Telling the downspiraling story of a struggling folk performer, Inside Llewyn Davis manages to charm it´s audience and give them something to meditate in the following days. The one that makes the movieMy Inside Llewyn Davis review

Telling the downspiraling story of a struggling folk performer, Inside Llewyn Davis manages to charm it´s audience and give them something to meditate in the following days.

The one that makes the movie work in every way and is the essencial part of the movie is the one and only Oscar Isaac. After this film I decided I absolutely respect this man. Not only for his amazing performance as an actor, as he perfectly plays the conflicted and subtly funny character the bros wrote for him, but as a folk performer who hits every emotional note as he sings. Another thing is that the songs where filmed live by the Coen Brothers and that peaks the challenge for Oscar Isaac just to the point to be amazed.
While the other actors are bypassing side-characters (except for Carrey Mulligan who is more present than the others) all of them manage to play their roles pretty awesomely and feel like Joel and Ethan Coen picked them very specifically for the characters they wrote, as every one of them understands how they must play their figure so that the subtle comedy can work. This film showed us the ability that the Coen Bros posess to write original characters.
The dialogue was fun to watch as you always expected a dose of crude humour to suddenly pop up. And that´s another aspect that was handeled pretty good. The humour in the movie is very subtle, natural but never over used, and it comes mainly from the dialogue and the performances who hit every humorous note needed.
Scene selection is something that the Coen Bros excell at, and now that folk song selection is their thing too. These songs fit the mood of the movie perfectly which is bleak but at the same time sympathetic. And plus the beautiful photografy this is a well done package.
Beeing said, this movie isn´t a cheerful one. Llewyn takes quite a life beeting in many scenes and it may be a little melancholic for some viewers.But it knows it´s themes and works with them in such a way that you won´t get this film out of your head in a few nights.
I just said that because this movie is deeper than just simply Llewyn´s journey this movie has metaphors and symbolism in it that won´t be easy to find but movie lovers will love to dig through the internet for answers. And that will be a gripe for some too. Many will feel confused becasue they just wanted to watch a fun movie or just sit back, relax and look at some meaningless **** (I sometimes like doing that too).
So in the end, great movie, amazing music, great actingm, an awesome pretext for making your brain hurt by analyzing it but clearly not aimed at the general audience.
I am giving Inside Llewyn Davis a 9/10.
Check my other reviews at http://thechannelofawesome.blogspot.mx/… Expand
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9
ericolsenMay 8, 2014
One of the most sad but at the same time honest films I have ever watched. The storytelling is flawless, the casting is superb, everything you could expect from a Coens production.
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0
suenahm7May 7, 2014
The movie keeps you waiting for a 'moment' to arrive for the main character Llewyn Davis...there is a solemn suspense that keeps you waiting and hoping that his cycle of bad breaks will end. I was able to appreciate the metaphor/meaningThe movie keeps you waiting for a 'moment' to arrive for the main character Llewyn Davis...there is a solemn suspense that keeps you waiting and hoping that his cycle of bad breaks will end. I was able to appreciate the metaphor/meaning after reading the New Yorker review, but I felt that the movie really fell short...very short of telling the story, a story in any meaningful way.… Expand
1 of 5 users found this helpful14
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9
RamonGuerreroMay 1, 2014
All this movie does is a great puzzle for you to assemble, feels like there's not plot at all, but there's more plot that you think. Joel and Ethan Coen had delivered us another great (not surprising) film, that is yet to be recognised, butAll this movie does is a great puzzle for you to assemble, feels like there's not plot at all, but there's more plot that you think. Joel and Ethan Coen had delivered us another great (not surprising) film, that is yet to be recognised, but it feels like the Coen Bros. are loosing magic, but they're still making powerful movies.… Expand
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0
MikefromAngusApr 20, 2014
Did I miss something? Did I watch another "Inside Llewyn Davis" movie? This movie, goes NOWHERE!
a lot of pointless dialog, drags on and on. The actors and music were good, but that doesn't make a good movie.
3 of 4 users found this helpful31
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5
ClariseSamuelsApr 7, 2014
This film might be better entitled, “Inside the Clinically Depressed Mind of Llewyn Davis.” If the world of music is often overglamorized, Ethan and Joel Coen have gone to great trouble to completely deglamorize it so that just about everyoneThis film might be better entitled, “Inside the Clinically Depressed Mind of Llewyn Davis.” If the world of music is often overglamorized, Ethan and Joel Coen have gone to great trouble to completely deglamorize it so that just about everyone who participates is a loser. That is, unless you happen to be the one person in the room who wins the lottery, such as the young Bob Dylan, who is briefly depicted at the end of the film as one of the neophyte folksingers who gets a break at the well-known Village nightclub, called the Gaslight Cafe, designed to be a public showcase for new talent back in the 60's. Beat poets like Allen Ginsberg gave readings there, and the Gaslight later metamorphosed into a club for folk music, where many young folk singers got a start.

The swarthy and handsome Oscar Isaac, playing the title role of Llewyn Davis, does a superb job of depicting an angry, frustrated young folk singer who plays the Gaslight but just can't get a break anywhere, even though he briefly captured a recording contract when performing as part of a duo with a partner who later committed suicide. That is where the depression in this movie begins. Going solo, Davis cannot collect royalties on a single recording or attract the attention of a single agent. As a libertine and free-thinker who is self-absorbed and who lives for the moment, he has no spouse, no children, and no place to live. He crashes every night at the homes of friends, including a couple where he seduces his friend's wife (Carey Mulligan) and accidentally gets her pregnant. Because she only wants her husband's child and not Davis's, she requests that Davis pay for her illegal abortion.

The critics had high praise for this film—in terms of making a film depicting someone who constantly makes bad decisions and leads a destructive lifestyle, and who is probably suffering from undiagnosed depression that causes him to explode into foul-mouthed tirades, the Coen brothers have done a good job. But since it is never clarified that this is a profile of mental illness, it becomes an unrelentingly stark and grueling portrayal of a talented young man who is on a hopeless downward spiral. Davis's self-centered and egomaniacal personality is such that he is unable to care about anyone but himself. He can't even be trusted with a cat. Three cats suffer from Davis's sociopathic indifference to the fate of others. There is not a single spark of sunshine in this man's life. His friends are at best friendly rivals. The woman he impregnated despises him. He is alienated from his sister and his nephew; his father is in a nursing home that is, like everything else in this film, dark, gloomy and joyless. Davis has no real desire to communicate with his father, and just as well, because his father is in the late stages of dementia and merely sits and stares blankly into space. The only sign of life is that his father soils himself while Davis is visiting, as if we needed more proof that everything in Davis's life is malfunctioning.

Davis's finances have also broken down catastrophically. He has no money to buy a proper winter coat or a pair of boots. He is always freezing to death and malnourished. But when well-to-do friends take him in and ask him to play a song at dinner, he erupts in rage for being treated like a trained pony, when clearly he doesn't perform for free; he only performs to “make a living.” His day job was that he once worked as a merchant mariner, and when in desperation he tries to go back to sailing, he is, as always, met with insurmountable obstacles.

I would not want to give away the ending, but there is no ending to give away. The ending starts over at the beginning. There is no redemption to be found here; no lesson to be learned. Except for a few songs that lift this film out of its perpetually bleak Weltanschauung, this story is purely the heavy-handed tale of a tragic hero who has no one to blame but himself.… Expand
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9
cylentstormApr 5, 2014
Soul. This flick just has it--along with a character whose general demeanor seemed almost painfully familiar to me until I realized that I sometimes make eye contact with him in the mirror. Funny, dark, bright, strange, haunting, and manySoul. This flick just has it--along with a character whose general demeanor seemed almost painfully familiar to me until I realized that I sometimes make eye contact with him in the mirror. Funny, dark, bright, strange, haunting, and many other adjectives that I'm too lazy to type. Seriously good stuff here. Come for the music. Stay for the cat joke.

P.S.: **** critics...and groupies. Peace.… Expand
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9
FireintheArcadeMar 26, 2014
Inside Llewyn Davis is getting a lot of smuck from audiences for being too boring. It is very subtle and doesn't have an extensive plot, so if that bothers you don't watch it. What it is, is a character study that explores what it's like toInside Llewyn Davis is getting a lot of smuck from audiences for being too boring. It is very subtle and doesn't have an extensive plot, so if that bothers you don't watch it. What it is, is a character study that explores what it's like to be a struggling musician in a what appears to be a dying genre (at the time). I quite enjoyed the film. Oscar Isaac's performance was superb, most notably his musical talent. It's really quite beautiful how much we learn about Davis in a one week period. It might seem like a bit of a downer, but Inside Llewyn Davis is a human experience that reminds us of that passion and talent isn't always recognized.… Expand
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3
tampagirlMar 18, 2014
First of all let me say I am a HUGE Coen brothers AND Justin Timberlake fan, so I was really looking forward to this movie. I must be either 1)not artsy enough, 2)not educated enough (even though I have a masters degree) 3)not a fan of folkFirst of all let me say I am a HUGE Coen brothers AND Justin Timberlake fan, so I was really looking forward to this movie. I must be either 1)not artsy enough, 2)not educated enough (even though I have a masters degree) 3)not a fan of folk music, or 4)all of the above. This movie took me on a meaningless journey to nowhere. I searched for metaphorical references, like the cat representing his heart, or other meaningful notations, and heck, I just wanted to be entertained at all. I honestly didn't understand this movie, and I think the critics say they liked it because it is just plain weird and that's what they seem to like. Justin Timberlake was underutilized and John Goodman was useless...as were several characters in the movie. Follow me around for a week and I promise you will be so much more entertained watching me make dinner at night, feed the dog, take a walk, sleep, work and do laundry.… Expand
4 of 10 users found this helpful46
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1
catzzzMar 16, 2014
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Thoroughly unlikable character; pointless movie. The cat was interesting, and John Goodman's character, slightly, though he wasn't in it for long. Was it worth sitting through just for the final moments when we hear a Bob Dylan song? Nah.… Expand
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0
sobellejanetMar 13, 2014
We simply did not get this. Maybe you need drugs to appreciate it. First and foremost, the folk music era (which was during high school for us) was very short lived...for a good reason. Rap music has been around longer. And frankly, IWe simply did not get this. Maybe you need drugs to appreciate it. First and foremost, the folk music era (which was during high school for us) was very short lived...for a good reason. Rap music has been around longer. And frankly, I thought the original music and screenplay from A Mighty Wind, a spoof on this era, was far superior. At the end, I thought I had watched a French film; it was just made by Americans. You know the kind. People you never really can connect with don't say much and nothing ever happens and there is an ending that is purposefully enigmatic. All in all nothing happened to anybody. This guy was very hard to like; he's a loser who's only shred of accountability is trying to care for his friend's cat. I also didn't like the shrewish ex girlfriend or whatever she was to him. HIs deceased partner in music...what was that all about? The trip from NY to Chicago and back in the wind and snow was for what purpose? I guess to allow John Goodman a chance to give a brief quirky inexplicable cameo. What did it show us about Llewyn except more of what a pathetic boring loser this guy is. Good grief! And the music definitely evoked all the memories of how puerile most folk music was. If you want to watch a meaningful comment on that brief period, don't miss A Mighty Wind. It exposes all the phony, quasi-intellectual sappiness in the most hilarious scathing way. An utter delight.… Expand
2 of 5 users found this helpful23
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9
moonman1994Mar 12, 2014
Absolutely beautifully shot. The Coen brothers certainly show that they have mastered using the camera to capture the bleak feeling that this movie has. That being said the film still manages to be funny at multiple times and it is filledAbsolutely beautifully shot. The Coen brothers certainly show that they have mastered using the camera to capture the bleak feeling that this movie has. That being said the film still manages to be funny at multiple times and it is filled with good music. Oscar Isaac does a great job as Llewyn and the entire cast supports him marvelously. The only real problem with the film is the ambiguity of the ending. It ends and you end up asking yourself whether the ending made it more philosophical or just gave it a feeling of being unfinished.… Expand
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9
FranzHcriticMar 8, 2014
A story of a man simply trying to start, not necessarily finish, and encountering problems along the way. The Coen brothers are still filmmakers that expose brutal honesty and realism to their films, only this time they do not add the levelA story of a man simply trying to start, not necessarily finish, and encountering problems along the way. The Coen brothers are still filmmakers that expose brutal honesty and realism to their films, only this time they do not add the level of comical violence. Just the story of an artist trying not to get back on his feet, but simply to stand up, and yes, I know I've just repeated myself. Oscar Isaac is a new talent as this man who we both feel both pity and disdain for. The cinematography, the soundtrack, everything fits with the time and era of the film.… Expand
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2
jmillajhawkMar 7, 2014
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I was very disappointed with this movie. It seemed like an easy out at every turn, the message I got basically being: life is sad and perhaps meaningless, it is hard to be an artist, we are doomed to repeat our mistakes. I think the Coen brothers became enamored of the early 60s Greenwich Village bohemian atmosphere, but they then failed to fashion that feeling into a satisfying feature length film and instead hung a fairly brittle premise. Sure, the movie expertly evokes a time and place, and some of the music is beautiful, but there's very little else in this. Characters flit in and out while the protagonist sits at the mercies of fate, seemingly bundling in to one catastrophe after another. He exhibits little to no capacity for change, and fails to be courageous or admirable at pretty much every turn.

I will admit that the dinner party scene that climaxes with the old lady screaming about the cat scrotum is still making me laugh. That part alone probably makes this a worthwhile watch, and reminds me how great the Coen brothers can be. Otherwise, though, this was a flimsy downer with little to redeem it.… Expand
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6
KayakMar 4, 2014
It seems a bit too niche to me. It didn't really engage me. As much as I absolutely loved the music, I was felt feeling a little bit confused at the end too. I think I need to watch it again
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8
LeZeeMar 4, 2014
No doubt it was a good movie with fine characters and great story. This movie reminds one of my favourite movie of recent time ‘Frances Ha’. Because both the main characters from these two movies are more alike. Theirs professional struggleNo doubt it was a good movie with fine characters and great story. This movie reminds one of my favourite movie of recent time ‘Frances Ha’. Because both the main characters from these two movies are more alike. Theirs professional struggle and also chronicles relationship problems.

This, Coen brothers latest created lots of noise before hitting the screen. Like everyone I too expected what they gonna give to us. I enjoyed it. The folk songs were so good and it was not nominated for Oscar because most of them were not original. According to the filmmakers, especially the music section was inspired by 70s, but not the lyrics.

Beautiful cinematography, very eye catching colour palette. It was on the short list for Oscar, but lost to the magnum Opus 'Gravity'. I was rooting for any of these two in this category for Academy awards.

I think Carey Mulligan is used to it with a character like this, an anti-good roles or an irritable one. In a recent 'The Great Gatsby' as well she was in such role. But I like her, she's the one of a beauty that Hollywood imported from Britain.

The only trouble the movie gave me was the tease in many parts. It teased me with its scenes when I expected something it went opposite direction made me look like a fool. Yeah, it was good thinking by the Coen brothers as the script writers, but I felt a little let down when they carried away throughout. In the end the buzz they created did not end in what everyone could expect. I don't know it is good or bad, but the movie will win our hearts.

Believe it is not your regular movie, but looks like one, that is the trick made by the legendary brothers. If you like sentiments with a low amount of its contents and realistic characters, then it will be your movie to have a peek inside.… Expand
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1
zublyonMar 3, 2014
C'mon, this can't be a Cohen Brothers movie. They are great story tellers. They always give us a good story that holds our interest, not a boring tale where we don't care what happens to the principal character. Did Joel and Ethan subcontractC'mon, this can't be a Cohen Brothers movie. They are great story tellers. They always give us a good story that holds our interest, not a boring tale where we don't care what happens to the principal character. Did Joel and Ethan subcontract this production to some novice producer/writer/director? "Inside Llewyn Davis" is a compilation of substandard folk songs sung by an unlikable, obnoxious, tiresome human being. This movie lost me in the first half hour. Unfortunately, I had to endure the remaining 90 minutes. The brothers were resting on their laurels when they made this one.… Expand
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3
MheenFeb 26, 2014
I wanted to like this movie, because I'm a big fan of the music genre. But it was just so slow, so boring, and had an ending that just left me completely unfulfilled.
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10
fiora95Feb 20, 2014
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Extremely deep and beautiful movie. Coen brothers are very very brilliant and witty in their scenes and dialogues. An unconventional and really intelligent story about a precise historical period which was very interesting. Before Bob Dylan. "Inside Llewyn Davis" has beautiful and characteristic colours. Coen brothers are great film directors, they are unique. You have to see this movie, it is one of the most beautiful movie of 2013/2014. It's unconventional and very very nice.… Expand
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4
TheKiddyFeb 16, 2014
I could not bear this film from the first moment. Here is someone you don't know or care about singing. The camera stays on him. He keeps singing. You wait. He keeps singing. The cat part by the way seemed false, absolutely false, startingI could not bear this film from the first moment. Here is someone you don't know or care about singing. The camera stays on him. He keeps singing. You wait. He keeps singing. The cat part by the way seemed false, absolutely false, starting from: if this is a building with an elevator attendant, there is a super on premises and a doorman. Get them to let the cat into the apartment. Then end the film. Beautifully shot however.… Expand
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9
foxgroveFeb 13, 2014
This really is a delightful gem of a film with a unique and beautifully rendered screenplay that is performed to joyful perfection by a talented cast. Oscar Isaac plays the titular Llewyn Davis, a struggling folk singer, who may not be allThis really is a delightful gem of a film with a unique and beautifully rendered screenplay that is performed to joyful perfection by a talented cast. Oscar Isaac plays the titular Llewyn Davis, a struggling folk singer, who may not be all that likeable a character, but is certainly very engaging to watch. This is one of the Coens best pictures to date, one to stand alongside 'Blood Simple' and 'Fargo', and a real surprise. Some lovely songs permeate the film adding to the hypnotic like hold it exudes. It is also beautifully shot with some well lit cinematography particularly in the club and during the road trip scenes in the second half. Carey Mulligan and John Goodman are amongst those etching out well drawn characters in small parts. Another great performance is given by a particularly obedient ginger Tom who doesn't seem to have any fear of the New York underground system. This is that rare beast, a film that gets better the more you reflect on its nuances.… Expand
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8
NightReviewsFeb 13, 2014
The essence of any character piece, especially one like this, is that for a short period of time (in this case, an hour and forty-five minutes), we are completely inside a person’s world; navigating through their faults, problems, dreams,The essence of any character piece, especially one like this, is that for a short period of time (in this case, an hour and forty-five minutes), we are completely inside a person’s world; navigating through their faults, problems, dreams, goals, hardships, conquests and successes. Inside Llewyn Davis is a film with very little accomplishments for its title character, but the film itself is anything but dissatisfying. Gorgeous in its bleakness and ridled with grey areas surrounded by sadness and endless failures, Inside Llewyn Davis is a slow, melodic narrative about the criticism that ridicule the life of an artist and the passion that ignites us all.

The Coen Brothers may very well be one of the most respected and applauded American directing duo working today, and rightly so. In their newest writing/directing gig, the Coens single-handedly deliver one of the most mysterious folktales in American cinema history, showcasing the talents of an actor who can sing his heart out and help drive one of the best original soundtracks in recent memory. The truth of the matter is, the Coen‘s completely submerge themselves in their work, and it is quite evident with Davis. Like its misunderstood and highly underrated protagonist, the film is a descent into the truth of the subjectivity of art and music. Every person is entitled to their own taste, and folk music is one genre that may not be for everyone. Fortunately for audiences and cinema lovers, the Coen brothers craft a finely-tuned tale of an artist’s struggle to make it in the Greenwich Village music scene in New York City during the early 1960′s. My only hope is that this film doesn’t find itself limited to theatres full of indie film lovers, Coen fanatics, and young kids looking to get pointers on how to be “hipster”.

Inside Llewyn Davis is a film loosely based on the life and music of Dave Van Ronk, an acoustic folk pioneer in the 60′s. But like so many, including myself, who had never heard of Van Ronk, the film itself is a testament to the power of interdisciplinary art forms. From the moment the spotlight is on, we are never quite sure if we are processing the power of the musicians on the small stages of coffee shops in Greenwich village, or if we are just surprised those musicians are actually just actors. Thankfully that’s where the talent and genius of chief executive music producer T Bone Burnett shines. Llewyn Davis becomes an applause worthy narrative that centers on the music and the stories these rich characters tell with their heavy lyrics and the strum of their acoustic guitars rather than just another character piece about a bunch of musicians. Instead of opting for A-list actors and teaching them how to pass with lip-syncing, the Coens got a hold of talented actors with incredible singing/songwriting abilities. From Justin Timberlake to Carey Mulligan to Marcus Mumford, the directors as well as music producer Burnett focus on the sound of the film to carry its authentic charm rather than the noises music-centric films often make. Delivering a bare-boned, authentically raw and vulnerable film stripped of all glamour, and instead is replaced with the grungy tattered clothing of real artists struggling to find a place to sleep, the artists and actors, as well as the music, are the real stand-out performers of Davis.

The film takes place over a week in the life of Llewyn Davis (Oscar Isaac). Beginning under the uncertain smoky spotlight of the Gaslight Anthem, it is evident that Davis’ voice, along with his sad storytelling music is heart wrenching, to say the least. The film begins and Davis introduces himself and his music with the sombre lyrics “Hang me, oh hang me”, a small glimpse into the reality Llewyn has faced as of recent. Llewyn has seen his fair share of death and tragedy, especially after his musical partner Mike commits suicide. As Llewyn tries to find a way to not just exist, but become something of himself as a folk musician, his journey as well as the journeys of everyone he meets along the way, becomes a modern-day Greek tragedy.

There are roles some people are just born to play, and Oscar Isaac was born to play the role of Llewyn Davis. The moment his mouth opens and his eyes gaze upon the scarce crowd, he delivers on a level that is satisfying for a singer as well as an actor, that makes you want to stand up and applaud after every song he sings–literally, I actually had to stop myself from standing up and applauding. Needless to say Isaac left his audience in the theatre hypnotized. Isaac delivers in ways that are both vile yet breathtaking. Irresponsible, unapologetic and inconsiderate to everyone, Llewyn Davis epitomizes the selfish arrogance any artists must learn to contain while on their seemingly endless uphill battle to success. Llewyn’s actions are unethical and impulsive, and his demeanour although comical at times, is somewhat unnerving.… Expand
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8
catcarloFeb 11, 2014
La prima scintilla è venuta dalla biografia di Dave Van Ronk e la parte visiva in molti esterni deve molto a ‘The freewheelin’ Bob Dylan’, ma il nuovo film dei fratelli Cohen non è la rievocazione della scena folk del Greenwich Village, bensìLa prima scintilla è venuta dalla biografia di Dave Van Ronk e la parte visiva in molti esterni deve molto a ‘The freewheelin’ Bob Dylan’, ma il nuovo film dei fratelli Cohen non è la rievocazione della scena folk del Greenwich Village, bensì il ritratto di un uomo che in quella scena cerca di farsi strada. Che non sarà molto lunga, lo si capisce già dal fatto che, per le vie del quartiere, Davis ci passeggia con un gatto sulla spalla invece che a braccetto di Suze Rotolo: del resto è un artista appena discreto (probabilmente il treno giusto è passato quando si è suicidato Timlin, assieme al quale si esibiva come duo) e un uomo che la fortuna non dimostra di meritarsela. E’ vero che bisogna sempre fidarsi della canzone e non del cantante, ma Davis dimostra di essere un egocentrico interessato solo alla sua musica e, di conseguenza, irresponsabile nei confronti degli altri, a partire da coloro che gli offrono ospitalità nel suo vagare senza dimora: lontano dalla famiglia, dorme sul divano in questa o quella casa e ha rapporti occasionali con donne altrui che poi lo ripudiano. Il viaggio della speranza è verso Chicago, ma dopo l’impietoso giudizio dell’impresario Bob Goodman (F. Murray Abrahams in una piccola parte), Davis accetta nel suo intimo che la musica non potrà essere la sua vita: dopo l’ultimo spettacolo nel solito club, lascia il palco a chi cambierà la storia e va a espiare parte dei propri peccati nel vicolo. Il risultato è una commedia amarissima, come spesso succede nei lavori dei Coen: benché numerose siano le situazioni o le battute che strappano il sorriso e anche la risata, il sottofondo resta sempre assai triste in quella che è la narrazione di un tratto nel percorso di vita di un perdente. Con una barba che fa molto artista e stretto nella sua giacchetta perché non può permettersi un cappotto, Oscar Isaacs disegna con grande finezza un personaggio non facile, perennemente in sospeso tra le aspirazioni artistiche e la mediocrità di tutti i giorni: l’attore nato in Guatemala è praticamente sempre in scena e si districa con abilità sia sul registro drammatico, sia dal lato commedia e – oltre a dover maneggiare un gatto, animale che odia - interpreta con la giusta partecipazione le canzoni del suo personaggio (il maestro è stato il supervisore alle musiche T-Bone Burnett, i brani sono quasi tutti traditional riarrangiati). Gli altri attori finiscono per essere fatalmente di contorno, ma ciò non vuol dire che le loro prova non aggiunga valore al risultato finale: se questo è vero anche per Justin Timberlake, lo è ancora di più per Carey Mulligan (che risulta assai più carina da mora) e, soprattutto, John Goodman nella parte di un tossico musicista jazz che si diverte a massacrare a parole la musica folk (e Davis in generale) nel viaggio verso Chicago. Davvero azzeccate sono poi le facce dei personaggi di contorno, scelte con una cura davvero mirabile a partire dall’anziano discografico Mel (Jerry Grayson all’ultima apparizione) e coetanea segretaria per finire alla coppia di amici benestanti Mitch e Lillian con i relativi ospiti – i due sono i padroni del gatto che Davis si ritrova fra i piedi e al quale presta quasi più attenzioni che agli esseri umani che lo circondano. Fotografato con toni in prevalenza freddi – e opportunamente invernali – dal francese Bruno Delbonnel, ‘A proposito di Davis’ non raggiunge il livello dei migliori fra i film dei fratelli Coen (ad esempio, la trasferta in una gelida Chicago è tirata troppo per le lunghe), ma è comunque un lavoro che, seppur non facile, lascia ampiamente soddisfatti, grazie a una capacità di fare cinema subito riconoscibile nelle atmosfere come nella rappresentazione delle singole situazioni – basterebbero le inquadratura nel ristorante deserto sulla via per il Midwest o la prospettiva kubrickiana della scena nel bagno. Infine, un’annotazione curiosa: il titolo italiano non compare mai, perché quello originale si può vedere solo in una fuggevole inquadratura dell’ (invenduto) disco solista del protagonista.… Expand
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3
MoviemattFeb 9, 2014
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. To quote another user (axgrinder), whose review is so good it needs to be repeated, in full: "The critics love Inside Llewyn Davis. A few even proclaim that Joel and Ethan Coen are the greatest filmmakers in America. But look past all those 100 pt. scores and notice the choice of words they use to describe this film. Words like small, painful, heavy, melancholy, bleak, deeply felt and exquisitely crafted. Few, if any, of them describe this movie as clever, interesting or entertaining. That’s because it isn’t.
Here’s more of what this movie isn’t. It isn’t funny. The night I saw this movie, the theater was sold out. No one laughed, not even once. Also, the songs aren’t that great. Unlike O’ Brother, Where Art Thou?, you’re not going to be singing any of these songs to yourself as you walk out the door, and you’re not likely to hear them on the radio, or anywhere else, ever again. (Sorry T-Bone.) Worst of all, the story isn’t very interesting or entertaining. It’s about a folk singer struggling to make it as a musician. He takes himself very seriously, and he thinks he’s better than everyone else. He makes a lot of bad decisions and pretty much alienates everyone around him. It turns out he’s not that good a song writer, and he gets beat up for being a jerk. Then the movie ends. (No one applauded. Everyone was too busy scratching their head and saying “Huh?”) No Country for Old Men was something of a head scratcher too, but at least it was interesting. My first reaction to this firm was, “Huh?” followed by “Wow, that was totally pointless.” (If you’ve seen Fruitvale Station then you know what I’m talking about.)"… Expand
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6
emkadvFeb 7, 2014
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I loved the music, and the performances were strong, but I was disappointed in the film overall. I didn't find any of the characters sympathetic. LLewyn (Oscar Isaac) is selfish and doesn't seem to care for other people. His sometime lover, Jean (Carey Mulligan) is a shrew. John Goodman does a fine performance as the jazz musician, Roland, but as a despicable character

I thought the film might show some of Llewyn's humanity when he saw the exit for Akron. He could have taken the exit and met the young son he had recently learned he had. But he bypasses the exit, for no apparent reason. LLewyn just does not connect with other people -- or this viewer.

I really wanted to love this film, but it is not up to the Coen brothers' standards.… Expand
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8
mont212Feb 5, 2014
Inside Llewyn Davis is heartfelt, memorable and enlightening; not just because it uncovers the folk scene of the 1960's that we rarely see, but because it slowly unravels the truth behind the music industry: it is not only bloody hard to makeInside Llewyn Davis is heartfelt, memorable and enlightening; not just because it uncovers the folk scene of the 1960's that we rarely see, but because it slowly unravels the truth behind the music industry: it is not only bloody hard to make it the top, but staying there is near impossible. Though some have accused it as leaving us with no satisfying conclusion (the end is rather sudden), they are forgetting that the Coen brother's surely never meant for it to have the cheerful climax that many films now copy. Instead, they lead us through the struggle, the pain and the anger that failure can incur on someone's life, with all aspects covered well - if not excellently - by Oscar Isaac. This is not to say that we should feel sorry for Llewyn - the Coens have presented us with a deeply immoral man here. Not only has he slept with his best friend (Carey Mulligan as Jean), but he seeks money to pay for the abortion from her current partner (Justin Timberlake as Jim, who we never really get the chance to learn about). Despite this, the film remains very likeable; for the Coens have always had a knack at keeping their audiences engaged to iniquitous characters. Jean - the aforementioned best friend of Llewyn who is played dryly yet hilariously by Mulligan - is at times a blueprint of this behaviour. Though she too made the choice to cheat on her partner, she forever blames Davis for the mistake she surely made too. However, she never fails to support him when he is desperate, and through this we get the impression that even Llewyn realises he needs her (not just music) to survive. Therefore, Inside Llewyn Davis is far from unsatisfying. Not only does it appreciate time for loneliness, failure, friendship and the power of music, it unveils a far more realistic and worthwhile tale of achieving success than perhaps many others have before it.… Expand
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6
HankSinderFeb 4, 2014
I was let down with the repetitiveness of the film as a whole. Like Barton Fink, the Coen brothers have created another dislikable protagonist that somehow captivates the viewer's interest throughout the film, yet doesn't leave themI was let down with the repetitiveness of the film as a whole. Like Barton Fink, the Coen brothers have created another dislikable protagonist that somehow captivates the viewer's interest throughout the film, yet doesn't leave them satisfied. I wish Llewyn's 'dick' personality shared more of the comedic genius that Walter Sobchak possessed (probably impossible to duplicate or compete with). Llewyn came off as a hopeless musician with an unpopular talent that would forever be shadowed by Bob Dylan. If I watch this film again, I'll probably catch more and I'm sure it will grow on me. The cat and Llewyn relationship also added some quirky originality to the masterful filmmakers that are the Coen Brothers.… Expand
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5
bm2759Feb 4, 2014
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I cannot understand why many people rate this film very highly. Nothing happens, literally. The end is the same as the beginning albeit with the addition of Bob Dylan playing on stage. Big whoop. I understand the meaning behind this; if you don't change anything about yourself or your situation then you're destined for repetition.

Don’t get me wrong. The music is quite good and captures the essence of that era. Isaac has a beautiful voice to boot. But you’re probably better off buying the soundtrack instead of seeing the movie. Each performance in this film is certainly impressive and I wouldn't be surprised if Justin Timberlake does a folk music album.

Back on the film itself was disappointed by the supporting cast. Everyone is quite suitable in their roles but we're not given enough time to care they appear. Llewyn is the main character and it makes sense he is the focus. However he is unlikeable because he is definitely annoying and unpleasant. I commend Oscar Isaac for nailing that. The two main women in Llewyn life have permanent PMS because they are always annoyed or angry so well done for showcasing realistic women. As for the rest they're onscreen and then they're gone as they don't matter to the story, considering there is little story to tell, they're just passing by. To the audience they may as well not have appeared at all. One exception is John Goodman as the vicious jazz musician. His appearance is a highlight for me, particularly on how he describes how talent-less folk musicians are with their limited, simplistic use of music: "C, G, C".... folk music hasn't changed much in 50 years.

And that leads me to this categorization of this film: comedy-drama. Really? I realize categorization helps people classify something but this is not a comedy drama. First and foremost this is a drama, with a different and interesting setting, with some comedy thrown in to lighten the melancholia throughout. It isn't laugh out loud comedy either, rather it gives us quite a few snickers, giggles and chuckles.

My lasting impression is that hype has helped sell this film and this hype has blinded many to believe this is a terrific film. It isn't. Appreciate the different setting and solid musical performances.… Expand
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9
adampaulburkeJan 29, 2014
If you like bleak, grey, then this is for you, wonderful movie. Sometimes a film comes along that makes you smile all the way through even if its dark. Coen Bros films do that to me, don't know why ! Maybe I'm just as sad as the characters.If you like bleak, grey, then this is for you, wonderful movie. Sometimes a film comes along that makes you smile all the way through even if its dark. Coen Bros films do that to me, don't know why ! Maybe I'm just as sad as the characters. Wonderful music, fantastic pace, interesting characters. Loved it.… Expand
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9
Prodigy2013Jan 22, 2014
The Coen brothers return with 'Inside Llewyn Davis'; a bleak character study that is one of their finest efforts, without trying too hard. The film treks a week in the life of the titular character, Llewyn Davis; a folk musician struggling toThe Coen brothers return with 'Inside Llewyn Davis'; a bleak character study that is one of their finest efforts, without trying too hard. The film treks a week in the life of the titular character, Llewyn Davis; a folk musician struggling to make it in the business despite undeniable talent. Llewyn navigates the Greenwich Village folk scene of 1961, and encounters many distasteful characters from his life (not that he's a charmer, himself). Without being able to plan for the future or face his past (such as the suicide of his musical partner) the man lives in the now. With no where to go and nothing to fall back on, his life seems to be headed in a vicious circle; and the Coens smartly structure their movie to resemble this dilemma. The Coens are master screenwriters; and there dense existential screenplay on this picture is a testament to that. Though craft a handsome looking film with the help of Bruno Delbennel's desaturated cinematography, and those authentic costumes and sets. The man a the centre of it all, Oscar Isaac, does a great job at playing Llewyn Davis; a character who we couldn't help but root for despite all his bad qualities. His brooding presence and his delivery of those wonderful folk tunes, was a delight to watch. Unfortunately, similar to the hero of this story, the film is quite underrated; but, I see it shining years from now. Like folk music itself, this gem just feels timeless.… Expand
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3
bionicsuperguuyJan 22, 2014
Funny at times but just when you think something is going to happen it goes off in a different direction. I didn't get it. Why all the great reviews? Just because it's the Coen brothers? Very disappointing.
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9
BikerjamesJan 21, 2014
Only the Coen Brothers can take such an unlikeable main character and make a completely watchable, entertaining film. I loved almost the entire film with the exception of the road trip featuring John Goodman and his "partner". ThoseOnly the Coen Brothers can take such an unlikeable main character and make a completely watchable, entertaining film. I loved almost the entire film with the exception of the road trip featuring John Goodman and his "partner". Those characters came across as kind of creepy instead of funny and didn't really add anything to the film. Other than that, the film had a lot of scenes that made me think of the film long after I left the theater. I had never heard of Oscar Isaac before this film, but he is totally believable as a frustrated, gifted musician who makes one bad decision after another. The movie is simply a week or so in a folk singer's life in the early 1960's, and how some struggling musicians lived and survived in the New York Bohemian scene. It also reminded me a little of the documentary "20 Feet From Stardom" that focused on the mystery of why some talented people never become stars despite having obvious talent. Loved the black and white photography and I really appreciate the Coen Brothers for thinking outside the box on some of their camera shots. Overall, definitely one of my favorite films of the year.… Expand
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9
JCouch777Jan 19, 2014
Another masterpiece from the Coens. Although I disagree with critics hailing it as one of their best, this still is a great film that shows the struggle to survive in our world. Finely done and perfectly crafted. HUGE Oscar snub.
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9
BrianMcCriticJan 19, 2014
Another strong showing by the Coen Brothers. The Coen's know how to start a film by making you feel lost but by the end your totally on board and are completely satisfied. Also this is a great soundtrack. A
2 of 4 users found this helpful22
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1
RobynfranceJan 18, 2014
This is a dreadful, dreary movie about an uninteresting character --I have trouble believing folks think it has merit. We could find nothing to really hold onto--boring guy with few morals or friends, minimal talent, schlepping from oneThis is a dreadful, dreary movie about an uninteresting character --I have trouble believing folks think it has merit. We could find nothing to really hold onto--boring guy with few morals or friends, minimal talent, schlepping from one place to another with little to offer--this is not deserving of further attention.… Expand
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9
Leo9127Jan 17, 2014
I love the Coen Brothers, and this movie is no exception, the atmosphere is great, the acting is great, I just gained a lot of respect from Oscar Issac, he is truly a great actor, this movie is one of the best of this year.
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9
KarlthecatJan 16, 2014
Other than the two German women talking through half of the movie, I found myself really liking Inside Llewyn Davis. I felt like it was a good example about how life was like in 1960s Greenwich Village for a struggling musician. ThroughoutOther than the two German women talking through half of the movie, I found myself really liking Inside Llewyn Davis. I felt like it was a good example about how life was like in 1960s Greenwich Village for a struggling musician. Throughout the film you will learn a lot about the main character, his struggles and what his song mean to him. A nice plus to the movie was how the actors had to learn the songs before they filmed the movie; you have no idea how much that bugs me when you see an actor misplaying a note. The hot button issue with this movie seems to be people saying that you only liked it or didn’t like it because your preference on Folk music. Granted if you don’t like Folk Music (e.g. musician like Bob Dylan) you might want to skip this one, but if you like or can even tolerate Folk music there a lot more to this film for you to enjoy.… Expand
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5
JamesLJan 16, 2014
The Coens are living off their past success as this movie has nothing to offer. Frankly, it is boring and the star is a lost cat. The plot is lost along with the audience as the film plods from his one failure to the next. Even the failuresThe Coens are living off their past success as this movie has nothing to offer. Frankly, it is boring and the star is a lost cat. The plot is lost along with the audience as the film plods from his one failure to the next. Even the failures are not connected in any meaningful way. That may be the point of the film. Personally, I think they have gotten to smart for themselves and have forgotten about the paying audience as their main clients. Even John Goodman can't save this bomb.… Expand
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9
ambenderJan 16, 2014
The saddest movie I've seen this year also has a couple of the funniest one-liners. The Coens are probably the only directors working today that could pull that off, and they continue to have my deep respect. Oscar Isaac and John Goodman wereThe saddest movie I've seen this year also has a couple of the funniest one-liners. The Coens are probably the only directors working today that could pull that off, and they continue to have my deep respect. Oscar Isaac and John Goodman were also majorly snubbed for Oscar nominations.… Expand
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8
TVJerryJan 16, 2014
It's 1961 New York, the folk music scene was going strong, but Llewyn Davis (Oscar Isaac) in on the weak side. He's always broke, living on friends' couches and not successful with his music. This film has some of the Coen Brothers hallmarkIt's 1961 New York, the folk music scene was going strong, but Llewyn Davis (Oscar Isaac) in on the weak side. He's always broke, living on friends' couches and not successful with his music. This film has some of the Coen Brothers hallmark traits: interesting characters (and some hilarious ones), deadpan humor, as well as intelligent approaches to plot, situations and people. The songs are given extended play (with the actors singing live) and actors are all excellent. While this film is richly observed and enjoyable, it's a bit slight by Coen Brothers standards.… Expand
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10
bdun_12Jan 15, 2014
Yeah, so this movie doesn't have much a plot. Don't let that prevent you from seeing it. One of the Coens' finest. A gloomy and real character piece is what it is. Llewyn Davis is one of the most complex original characters that the CoensYeah, so this movie doesn't have much a plot. Don't let that prevent you from seeing it. One of the Coens' finest. A gloomy and real character piece is what it is. Llewyn Davis is one of the most complex original characters that the Coens have dreamed before, and what a performance by Oscar Isaac. Please, don't go into this movie expecting a formulaic plot about a lucky musician who strikes it big. You won't get that, the Coens can't let you off that easily. Another masterpiece by some of the greatest American filmmakers ever and my personal favorite film of 2013. Must see.… Expand
2 of 5 users found this helpful23
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1
zeevcatJan 14, 2014
Egads. Has anyone who was alive during the musical culture of the early 1960s seen this movie and reviewed it positively? It is stultifying. Llewyn is like the walking dead, surly-faced, untalented, and really boring. His so-called auditionEgads. Has anyone who was alive during the musical culture of the early 1960s seen this movie and reviewed it positively? It is stultifying. Llewyn is like the walking dead, surly-faced, untalented, and really boring. His so-called audition in Chicago is ridiculous, as if the writer/musician "inside" him skipped town. All the songs (with the exception of the one performed by Justin Timberlake in the Columbia Records studio) are the same monotonous tempo as if all the metronomes in the world were set at 15 beats per minute. Could we have seen any other facial expression on the guy except for the permanent look of pain and suffering? I was in the Village during the Beatnik era and remember it so differently. Did the Coen Brothers talk to anyone who was there? Dave Van Ronk's book about his life and times was allegedly an inspiration, but did they actually read it? This did not approximate the Mayor of MacDougal Street energy and spirit, but rather the drab life of an Accountant of MacDougal Street. A huge disappointment after hearing all the hype. Llewyn Davis proves himself a small, petty, uncaring (never once did he stroke those poor cats) man. The only satisfying moment in the film for me was the end, when he gets his comeuppance.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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6
LynJan 13, 2014
Llewyn is not self-aware enough to be tragic and not witty enough to be comic. Oscar Isaac's soulful performance hints at hope and heartache, but the movie doesn't really allow him to do more than hint. Still, at least for boomers, the folkLlewyn is not self-aware enough to be tragic and not witty enough to be comic. Oscar Isaac's soulful performance hints at hope and heartache, but the movie doesn't really allow him to do more than hint. Still, at least for boomers, the folk music is a fun flashback and the quirky characters are well-played and amusing. Like Llewyn on his ill-fated road trip, you just have to go along for the ride.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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4
avantgardnerJan 13, 2014
Where was the plot line? Where was the twist? Seems to be a new trend of having interesting characters with no real story being told. Am I missing it?
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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7
DavebobJan 13, 2014
This was the movie I was looking forward to the most of the current highly reviewed films. The music was great and the acting was good but the plot never seemed to go anywhere. I never felt very attached to any of the characters except LlewynThis was the movie I was looking forward to the most of the current highly reviewed films. The music was great and the acting was good but the plot never seemed to go anywhere. I never felt very attached to any of the characters except Llewyn and his character was kind of an ass.
Not bad but not that great either.… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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6
BKMJan 11, 2014
There's a great deal of grief and loss rumbling inside Llewyn Davis, but as is Joel and Ethan Coen's style, the emotions are muted and only seep out through the singing and playing of Oscar Isaac. The end result is more of a meticulouslyThere's a great deal of grief and loss rumbling inside Llewyn Davis, but as is Joel and Ethan Coen's style, the emotions are muted and only seep out through the singing and playing of Oscar Isaac. The end result is more of a meticulously detailed depiction of a bygone era than a fully engrossing film viewing experience. In typical Coen fashion it is challenging, frustrating and uncompromising but ultimately unsatisfying.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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10
temrok9Jan 11, 2014
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I have a certain opinion about this movie that I think differs from most reviews I 've read(although there was a review by David Kempler that I totally agree with).Well my opinion is that, odd as it seems, by considering the movie a great one and by supporting its greatness with the evidence of the story's moral (the talented artist that goes uncredited forever), you don't really appreciate what this movie is about.I have to admit that while watching it I was not satisfied either with the script or with the way it was filmed, not to mention my aversion towards many of the songs (but I guess this is a matter of taste).However, I keep thinking about the movie three days now and I feel that it haunts me much more than movies I've recently enjoyed a lot while watching.Why is that so? I think Inside Lllewyn Davis is a key to the cinema of Cohen brothers, a movie that enlightens the elements that make their movies special, and these elements, as is usually the case, have to do with a certain philosophy that transcends the movies and their particular stories and instead becomes the real center of their work(as expressed by the way they elaborate every story they touch into a kind of a myth with certain characteristics). To get started, I would say that the first thing to notice is that the cinema of the Cohens is a cinema of ambivalence. Take Inside Llewyn Davis for example: I believe that the way the songs are treated in this movie leaves for the spectator to decide whether they are mediocre or the work of a genius;the way the songs of Llewyn Davis are treated by the people in the movie adds to this ambivalence;we hear that they won't bring money, that he should get back to his duet work, we see people very satisfied with the songs(at the club, for instance)-but they seem to get satisfied with almost anything -and we know that Llewyn believes in the potential of his songs, but not consistently and anyway they are his songs and this is what happens inside him.On the other hand, success could then be counted only in terms of making money, of being commercial,leaving the question of what real art is in suspense.This kind of suspense lies in the heart of the movies of Cohens, I believe.And also, what else lies in the heart of their films, I see clearly here, is that the main character is to be forever damned, forever excluded from the possibility of self fulfilment, no matter how closely he comes to it. Llewyn Davis, no matter how much he strives, has no chance(the guy with the costume that awaits for him is not the Times guy we've been expecting to change his luck but one who wants to beat him up, and for good reasons;the girl he's in love with, although ambivalent towards him, won't ever conclude she's choosing him no matter how much we expect it to be so; when a chance to meet his child comes out of the blue, and we expect him to change direction, he won't take it, and although it might not change anything, his inability to act makes it seem like one more lost chance;and,perhaps most of all, in a moment of stress, he will leave the cat behind, closing his eyes to the begging of the more human of his companions to this road to hell on earth.Llewyn Davis is, in other words, doomed;and he's doomed in the way Barton Fink was(perhaps the character that is closer to him in the Cohen's universe),
So what's the moral?what do we get from all these?NOTHING as the Hulla-hoop man would say;at the end there is no point and no reason, no nothing except for a certain situation in which the main characters of the movies get lost-and loose themselves-within. Inside Llewyn Davis is the slow torture of a man in a world where he thinks he is someone and he deserves better , when the truth is he's no one and he deserves nothing;like the rest of us.I guess that's the reason the movie haunts me three days now;not the most enjoyable Cohens' movie, I believe, but one of their most successful after all, if we should count success by what a work of art imposes on the spectator as a human being overall. Perception is self centered on its basis and we always forget this but in the greatest moments of cinema the lonely doomed heroes (Polanski's ghost writer and many others, Snake Plissken, John Trent, Gilderoy of Berberian sound studio, just to name a few) tend to remind us of that;and to let us have a glimpse into the human condition naked-the way perhaps madness does-or this can only be a point of view( of mine) and beyond that there lies the valley of everything(and nothing).Good night!… Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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1
Love4MoviesJan 10, 2014
Save your money. In fact, the Coen Brothers should give me a refund or come to my house and listen to me sing old folk songs for 2 hours. Okay, a couple of sad songs are fine but too much of a sad thing is a bad thing. If the purpose ofSave your money. In fact, the Coen Brothers should give me a refund or come to my house and listen to me sing old folk songs for 2 hours. Okay, a couple of sad songs are fine but too much of a sad thing is a bad thing. If the purpose of the film was to drive the audience into the ground with unconnected sequences and with only a cat to give a moment of meaning -- then you will like the film. Good cat, bad movie.… Expand
3 of 4 users found this helpful31
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9
deanableJan 10, 2014
A beautiful film with wonderful acting, and for those who have an interest in the folk scene in New York in the 1960's, its certainly a dream come true. Additionally, John Goodman, gives one of the best performances of his career.
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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10
Tazmania32Jan 9, 2014
I feel like what the Coen Brothers did in this was aim at striking a very delicate cord of: not everyone becomes a star. That harsh can really slap you in the face sometimes, and that darkness and that attempt to turn your shoulder awayI feel like what the Coen Brothers did in this was aim at striking a very delicate cord of: not everyone becomes a star. That harsh can really slap you in the face sometimes, and that darkness and that attempt to turn your shoulder away from that is something that the Coen's know how to illustrate. Great film.… Expand
2 of 5 users found this helpful23
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