Set in the 1970s, this supernatural drama is narrated by young murder victim Susie Salmon (Saoirse Ronan). The film shows her life before her murder and after, as she is stuck in an in-between world, halfway between earth and heaven. It also follows the story of her family, as they cope with their loss and struggle to find her killer.
Unfortunately, director Peter Jackson did not manage to achieve the standard of filmmaking that he has with other movies, such as The Lord of the Rings trilogy. There were several Jackson trademarks; however, they were not well executed. For instance, he tends to create movies based on fantasy or the supernatural. While this film did have supernatural elements, such as Susie’s being caught in the in-between world, these did not have much purpose. At only two or three points throughout the story, she is able to vaguely communicate with her family. Other than that, there is almost no reason for her to even appear in the film after her death.
Another weak aspect of the film is the narration. More than anything, it just adds to the confusion of the story. The subject matter is contradictory and very hard to follow. For instance, throughout the movie, Susie talks about the unwavering love that her father has for her and his resolve to bring her killer to justice. But, she also talks about how no one remembers a loved one once they have died. These mixed signals left me wondering what exactly the message was that the filmmakers were trying to convey.
Film Grade: D+
Until Next Time,
Kathryn (The Redhead Behind the Reviews)
4/18/18
Sources:
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0380510/
http://www.amc.com/talk/2010/02/qa-stanley-tu
https://www.pinterest.co.uk/mick2chrit/the-lovely-bones/
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0380510/awards?ref_=tt_awd