From scandalized master auteur Roman Polanski comes this new film based on the play by David Ives. "Venus in Fur" is about a frustrated theatrical writer-director named Thomas (Mathieu Amalric) who is getting ready to go home after a disappointing series of auditions for the lead actress in his play. Enter Vanda (Emanuelle Seigner) who is drenched, late and woefully wrong for the part. Yet she insists she is made for the role and guilts Thomas into letting her audition, despite his better judgment. Quickly, Thomas realizes Vanda is perfect for the role and finds himself playing the male lead during their sexually tense reading. What follows is an elegant film, rendered by Polanski with such skill that one forgets they are watching a movie, and not getting caught up in a play. Sure, the style is apparent, but what about the substance? Phil admired the masterful control Polanski has over his actors and the overall production, but feels a little let down by the conclusion. Andrew is wowed by the acting and would love to see more plays adapted into films. Catch "Venus in Fur" at your local art house theater and participate in the discussion on this blog.
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