Paterson, directed by Jim Jarmusch
(R, 1 hour, 58 minutes)
There are two approaches to Paterson. One is that it's a fascinating micro-study of a curious character. The other is that it's a brain-numbing bore of a micro-study of a curious character who isn't worth studying. Take your pick.
The character in question is named Paterson. He's played by Adam Driver. Paterson lives in Paterson, N.J., where he drives a bus, walks his dog, stops in a quiet local bar for one beer after supper, and lives in a cute little house with his cute, creative, ambitious wife Laura (Golshifteh Farahani), who comes up with seemingly endless ways of reinventing herself into becoming a success at something or other.
The most interesting thing about Paterson the character (not the city), who's quiet and meditative, is that he writes poetry. Halfway decently. That's it. Whether you find this appealing depends a great deal on how you feel about Jim Jarmusch films (like 2013's Only Lovers Left Alive and 1999's Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai). And you might take into consideration your need for stimulation before watching this, as it will have a telling effect on your enjoyment level. With Barry Shabaka Henley, Method Man.
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MovieStyle on 04/07/2017