Writer: Lorraine Tan

Writer Ratings:
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Cast:
Plot:
Effects: NA
Cinematography:

Watch this if you liked: "Gambit"

Wallace Avery (Colin Firth) failed in everything from marriage to relationships with people and narrowly missed a shot of fame in golf. So he decides to stage his own death and take on a new identity as Arthur Newman, in an attempt to escape his fate. He then meets a young woman, Mick (Emily Blunt) who is also trying to leave her past behind.

The characters are from different backgrounds but they find out they share so much in common. Things got tough when they try to live with each other on the road, each struggling with trust and insecurity issues, and they eventually discover more things about themselves that they did not know about.

Firth has had some hit and misses in his resume and clearly this film is not one of his greatest work. Both Firth and Blunt's performance in this film are nothing to shout about, however they show great onscreen chemistry together, despite the lack of bonding before filming. They also somehow manage to deliver the individual essence of their characters.

"Arthur Newman" is director Dante Ariola's debut feature film. This is the man who has directed some major commercials like, Coca Cola, Nike and Lexus. Naturally, it will be assumed that his film would be as interesting and unconventional as his commercials. While the plot seems fresh and unique, it fails to satisfy the audience's anticipation.

The development of the plot was slow and draggy; its lack of direction makes the film confusing for the most parts and the only entertainment is from the familiar stars themselves. While it is supposed to be a comedy-drama, the comedy never came.

In conclusion, the plot holds a lot of potential for the film to be a great one, yet it fell flat and most of the scenes seem repetitive and boring to the audience. There is not much development or even a climax; it is merely two idealistic adults hopelessly trapped in their own world.

Cinema Online, 05 July 2013