A Serious Man

A Serious Man (2009)
Directed by Ethan Coen & Joel Coen
Length: 106 minutes
Rated R for language, some sexuality/nudity, and brief violence




The Coen brothers have made a career out of odd movies that seem to be appreciated by only the most elite of the movie snobs. With their signature black humor and often "open to interpretation" endings, it isn't hard to spot Ethan & Joel Coen's latest. Occasionally they will produce a film that can be considered more accessible (Raising Arizona, Burn After Reading), but you can always count on these two staying true to their roots. With A Serious Man, I'd be lying if I said most people would enjoy it.

Considered the Coen brothers' nod to their Jewish heritage, the film centers on Larry Gopnik, played by Michael Stuhlbarg (Goldstar, Ohio; Cold Souls), a physics professor whose seems to have run into a streak of bad luck that would make Job look like a lottery winner - a wife that wants a divorce, whining kids, car accidents, trouble at work, mounting debts, etc. Though Larry appears to be a good guy with a good heart, the problems just continue mounting in an almost comical downpour. The old adage, "When it rains, it pours," doesn't even begin to convey the burden on Larry.

Watching this movie requires a bit of research, especially for those not familiar with the Jewish culture or not fluent in Yiddish. If the language/culture barrier wasn't enough for you, add physics concepts dealing with duality to the mix. Put simply, this isn't a film you can simply watch - be sure to have Wikipedia pulled up as you pause every so often. While you may be able to stomach through concepts like "for every action their is an equal and opposite reaction," be prepared to debate the film at its conclusion.

Ultimately, A Serious Man is a reminder of just how unique the Coen brothers are. Few directors are brazen enough to blend Jewish culture with advance physics and attempt to market it to the popular masses. That being said, many of you will not enjoy this film, deeming it too artistic and "weird." I'll admit, even I had trouble processing the film. If you welcome the challenge and have someone to discuss the film with, you may find a challenging film that lives up to the Coen name. Otherwise, you may just be more puzzled and put off by their latest effort.

Final Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

Oscar Nominations:
Best Motion Picture
Best Original Screenplay