CIFF – Jackie

I needed to wait a day and let the film sift through my mind in order to decide how I felt about this film.  At times beautiful and poetic while sad.  At times confusing and surreal.  (Part of this was due to the editing style. ) Natalie Portman did an outstanding job but I never felt I was watching Jackie, rather I was watching a portrayal by an actor.  Did not match up to a Meryl Streep level performance when she takes these kind of roles.  The music was not only noticeable but very moving.  Cinematography – lighting and camerawork- was special.

Director Pablo Larrain, in a post screening interview, told the audience that this was a film about a mother.  That description threw me initially.  Although there are some moving scenes involving Caroline and John Jr. they were not the focus of the film.  Then very close to the end, the reporter thanks Jackie for being “mother” to the nation and helping them deal with the tragedy.  This was very true and I admire Larrain for picking up on that.l He also conveyed that he purposely left out “iconic” shots such s John-John’s salute.  That was the first thing those around me mentioned at the end of the film.  Funny how the little things dominate our minds.

Unfortunately the film is only showing once at the festival.  I need a second viewing to gain a better appreciation of the art that my gut tells me is there.