"Cafe Society" Movie Review

In the 1930s, the movie business was booming and Hollywood was growing quickly. The now legendary actors and actresses were becoming famous and setting the groundwork for films. Off screen, however, Hollywood was a much different scene. "The whole town is run on ego," says Phil Stern, played by Steve Carell. He was very much correct, and newcomer Bobby, played by Jesse Eisenberg, experienced the ego for himself.

Bobby was tired of New York City and moved to Hollywood in hopes of a better life. His first move was meeting with his Uncle Phil in order to find a job. Phil helps him get started, introducing Bobby to some A-list celebrities and agents. But the person that catches Bobby's eye is Vonnie, played by Kristen Stewart, who has been having an affair with Bobby's uncle, unbeknownst to Bobby. The trio fall into a love triangle of sorts, Vonnie being unable to decide who to choose. On one side she had a successful businessman who could provide for her and give her whatever she wanted, assuming of course he left his wife first. On the other hand there was a young man who treated her like a person rather than an object, who had true feelings for her rather than a desire of acquisition.

It's hard to define this film. At times it's comedic, other times dramatic, and then a bit romantic. It's not exactly a romcom, nor a dramedy, not even a romdram. It's all three, and the film is well-balanced among all three.The acting was fantastic, each person giving their all. The settings are beautiful. I don't think I have ever seen a movie set not based on a fantasy world that was this gorgeous. The clothing was also gorgeous. I don't usually pay attention to clothes but the detail in Kristen Stewart and Blake Lively's dresses was magnificent.

In conclusion, the film left me feeling a bit melancholy but at the same time happy. It played with emotions on so many levels and was brilliantly written, acted and directed. I give the film a 4 out of 4.