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Writer's pictureBenjamin Maio Mackay

Wonder Wheel - 2 Stars

Honestly the most disappointing Woody Allen film in years.

On Coney Island in the 1950s, a lifeguard tells the story of a middle-aged carousel operator and his beleaguered wife.

Woody Allen has written and directed one film per year for as long as I can remember. After two excellent films (Cafe Society and Irrational Man) there was bound to be a failure. Wonder Wheel is over the top, everything is overly dramatic (considering the circumstances) and the more threatening plot elements disappear when they aren’t needed. The cinematography is beautiful and the lighting frames the actors in great light. The tonal shifts in the script are excellently reflected in the cinematography and the soundtrack accompanies excellently.

The plot is lacking and the cast do their best, but it isn’t enough. Kate Winslet has a great role in this film and Justin Timberlake does a good job keeping up. Juno Temple is excellent and Jack Gore really is the only character you feel empathetic for.

Overall the film just lacks conviction and believability, it’s too big.

2 Stars

Review by Benjamin Maio Mackay

Screening courtesy of eOne Entertainment

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