Some movies are good because they are marked by great performances. The story may not necessarily be unique or something to be excited about, but you want because of the because of the actress performance who are a real credit to their craft. Puzzle was one of those movies for me. In a nutshell the story is about a Suburban mom who’s taking for granted and finds a passion for something which leads to a connection with another man. Well, it is not necessarily important to know what her passion is, it’s putting together puzzles, it’s really about the fact that she finds something outside of her routine that she can be passionate about. And it’s a passion that her husband may not understand which eventually drives them apart. Yes, it’s not a unique story, but it doesn’t make it a bad story either.
We tell the same stories in unique and interesting ways. That’s what I liked about Puzzle, especially with the metaphor because I think the chambers of a woman’s heart is like a puzzle, if I can venture an opinion. It also helps make the character, not so one-dimensional. I can’t say that this is a film that you would ever watch again, but it is a film that should be experienced. Kelly MacDonald, the main protagonist in the film is sensational. Even though you will not like his character, David Denman also gives a great performance as her husband.
There is something quite wonderful about this story. Almost like it’s a mirror which forces us to stare back at ourselves and see what our lives have become if we are in a Loveless marriage filled with routine and lack of passion. These are true stories and the best stories are always true. That’s what a good narrative should be within a story. But I would also say that there is a certain quirkiness surrounding the idea of puzzles and the competition you can be a part of where you’re putting them together under a time limit and how do you approach putting together a puzzle, especially when working with a partner. I understand how they can be calming for people because there’s a certain order to it that makes sense within a world of chaos. This movie will never be some big Hollywood production or even a popular film, but it is the perfect example of a good strong narrative-driven story that’s what I like about it.
My only complaints about the film, honestly are just some of the pacing issues. I don’t need to see long moments with the camera on just a person sitting in a silent room. A few seconds and we get the point. But I understand filmmakers who want to draw you in to scenes so there’s a lingering effect. But I’ll always complain about these kinds of things in movies because pacing is everything. That’s what helps truly drive your narrative and make your audience, not want to leave the journey that they’re on within the movie.
Overall, this is a good film comets not perfect, but it’s the strong performances by the actors that helped make this movie a good one to watch even if you only watch it once. It is an exploration of true character development and about these people finding solace within the mundane or misery of their lives. Sometimes it’s not always winning, but finding Solace or acceptance and I think that’s where this film really hits the mark within the story. For future filmmakers and actors, this film is a must-see film for how to truly apply your craft. I did like this movie and while I don’t necessarily see everybody paying $15 for movie ticket to see it, it is a good matinee and definitely worth renting. The cast did a great job and if you like watching movies just to see great performances and this is definitely a good movie for you.
