Cosmopolis (2012) Movie Review: A Dense and Provocative Exploration of Modern Alienation
Overview
Directed by David Cronenberg, “Cosmopolis” (2012) is a cerebral drama based on Don DeLillo’s novel of the same name. The film stars Robert Pattinson in a role that marks a significant departure from his previous work, showcasing his range as an actor. With its dense dialogue and philosophical musings, “Cosmopolis” offers a thought-provoking, if challenging, exploration of wealth, technology, and existential dread.
Plot Summary
The film follows Eric Packer (Robert Pattinson), a 28-year-old billionaire asset manager, as he embarks on a journey across Manhattan in his high-tech, stretch limousine. Packer’s mission for the day is deceptively simple: to get a haircut at his father’s old barber shop. However, the journey becomes a surreal odyssey as he navigates through a city teetering on the edge of chaos.
As Packer’s day progresses, he encounters various individuals who force him to confront his own life and the world around him. These interactions include meetings with his wife Elise Shifrin (Sarah Gadon), his chief of theory Vija Kinsky (Samantha Morton), his mistress Didi Fancher (Juliette Binoche), and a disgruntled former employee Benno Levin (Paul Giamatti).
Throughout the day, Packer’s empire begins to crumble due to a risky bet against the Chinese yuan, and he faces increasing threats to his safety. As the world outside his limo becomes increasingly unstable, Packer’s existential crisis deepens, leading to a climactic confrontation that challenges his understanding of himself and his place in the world.
Performance and Direction
Robert Pattinson delivers a standout performance as Eric Packer, portraying the character’s cold detachment and inner turmoil with remarkable nuance. Pattinson’s portrayal captures the essence of a man who is both in control and completely lost, navigating a world where money and technology have distorted human connection.
The supporting cast, including Sarah Gadon, Juliette Binoche, Samantha Morton, and Paul Giamatti, contribute strong performances that add depth to the film’s introspective narrative. Each character serves as a mirror reflecting different facets of Packer’s psyche and the world he inhabits.
David Cronenberg’s direction is meticulous and controlled, creating an atmosphere of clinical detachment that mirrors the protagonist’s mindset. The film’s pacing is deliberately slow, allowing the audience to immerse themselves in the dense dialogue and complex themes. Cronenberg’s adaptation of DeLillo’s novel stays true to its source material, preserving the book’s philosophical depth and fragmented narrative structure.
Visuals and Cinematography
The cinematography by Peter Suschitzky is striking, capturing the sterile and claustrophobic environment of Packer’s limousine. The film employs a palette of muted colors and sharp contrasts, reflecting the cold, technological world that Packer inhabits. The use of tight framing and reflective surfaces enhances the sense of isolation and introspection, making the limo feel both like a fortress and a prison.
The film’s visual style complements its thematic focus, with the city outside the limo appearing both vibrant and chaotic, in stark contrast to the controlled, almost lifeless interior. This visual dichotomy underscores the tension between Packer’s insulated existence and the tumultuous reality he is increasingly disconnected from.
Themes and Relevance
“Cosmopolis” delves into themes of wealth, technology, alienation, and the search for meaning in a postmodern world. The film critiques the hollow nature of capitalism and the alienating effects of technological advancement. Packer’s journey serves as a metaphor for the emptiness of a life driven by financial success and devoid of genuine human connection.
The narrative explores the idea of self-destruction as a means of finding authenticity, as Packer systematically dismantles his empire and confronts his mortality. The film’s existential undertones challenge viewers to reflect on their own lives and the societal structures that shape them.
Streaming and Availability
For viewers in the United States, “Cosmopolis” is available for streaming on various platforms. You can watch it on Amazon Prime Video and other streaming services. The film is also available for rent or purchase on digital platforms such as Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies, Vudu, and YouTube Movies.
Conclusion
“Cosmopolis” is a dense and provocative film that offers a deep dive into the complexities of modern existence. Robert Pattinson’s compelling performance, coupled with David Cronenberg’s precise direction, makes for an intellectually stimulating and visually intriguing experience. While the film’s slow pace and heavy dialogue may not appeal to all audiences, those interested in philosophical explorations of wealth, technology, and alienation will find “Cosmopolis” to be a rewarding watch. Its challenging narrative and thought-provoking themes make it a standout entry in contemporary cinema.
