Bettany left me broken-hearted whereas Fredenburgh simply toes the line in:
Review of Broken Lines
Despite being encumbered with plot holes and awkward, non-emotionally charged moments; ‘Broken Lines’ makes for a thought-provoking, interesting watch.
Dan Fredenburgh offers a clunky performance as Jake, a confused Jewish man who just can’t decide if he wants a bit of rough in the form of B (Doraly Rosa), or to continue his middle class relationship with smooth talking teacher Zoe (Olivia Williams), so he opts for both.
Initially, it seemed that Rosa’s sporadic North London accent was what jarred, but as the plot progressed and her tones settled down it became apparent that it was the wooden Fredenburgh who was destroying any tension, sexual or otherwise. His awkward performance is exacerbated by frequent Jedi moments where he self-importantly imparts clichés that he has allegedly adopted from his deceased father, such as ‘in dreams begin responsibilities ‘ which he advises B when giving her a guitar. Feel the force.
In complete contrast, Paul Bettany, who plays complicated Chester, gives an incredible performance. His portrayal of Chester’s physical and emotional suffering is utterly convincing. Some of the scenes where Chester’s absolute frustration with himself and his situation manifests itself in emotional explosions are heart-wrenching. Bettany’s first-class acting lifts the otherwise average performances of the other characters.
Rosa’s depiction of B and her ambivalence towards Jake and Chester is at times inspired, and at others, insipid. It is refreshing to see a strong female protagonist living her life in a way usually reserved for male characters. B not only has a relationship with several men, but also seeks to fulfil her own sexual needs. She remains strong even when the men in her life are experiencing emotional turmoil. Rosa’s portrayal of this streetwise yet sensitive lady is fascinating to watch though sometimes the moment is spoilt by the outfits that B wears – such as an evening dress, woolly hoody and trainers – kooky or crass?
‘Broken Lines’ is brimming with arty shots that capture bleak yet beautiful North London, without being pretentious. However, the fact that Jake is able to see into all of the windows of Bs house through the same window in his father’s shop seems slightly unlikely, as does the odd coincidence that his father’s shop just happens to be opposite the dingy home of the woman of his drea...well, that he fancies. Oh, and she always leaves the curtains open, even at night, when they’re bathing. As you do. There is also a distinct lack of modern technology, mobile phones , for example, seem to have bypassed this sector of North London; they do exist as Jake uses his at one point, but other than that, even in extreme emergencies, no one phones any one.
Aside from these whimsical plot devices, Bettany’s stunning performance and a generally beautiful and atmospheric portrayal of London make ‘Broken Lines’ a compelling watch. That is, until you are faced with the most ludicrous of romantic comedy endings to what is otherwise a poignant romantic tragedy.
3 Stars
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Holly Freeman
hollydarlingfreeman@hotmail.co.uk