Under the Silver Lake

Under the Silver Lake is a film that seems to trip over its own surreal intentions. With a mix of dark comedy and mystery, it tries to be profound but often feels self-indulgent.

A Vanishing Mystery

The film follows Sam, played by Andrew Garfield, a disillusioned young man who becomes obsessed with a mysterious woman named Sarah, portrayed by Riley Keough. After their brief encounter in a Los Angeles apartment pool, she disappears, prompting Sam to embark on a bizarre and convoluted quest. As he wanders through the city, he encounters a series of odd characters and unraveling conspiracies that lead him deeper into a haze of paranoia and absurdity. While the film attempts to draw commentary on modern relationships and societal disconnection, it often gets lost in its own web of surrealism, losing the audience along the way.

Performances in a Surreal World

Andrew Garfield delivers a solid performance as Sam, bringing a relatable mix of confusion and intrigue to the role. However, the film risks becoming too reliant on his character, sidelining others like Riley Keough's Sarah, who, despite her intriguing portrayal, falls flat due to limited screen time. The supporting characters, while eccentric, can feel more like caricatures than fully fleshed individuals, failing to leave a lasting impact. Topher Grace's role as the 'Bar Buddy' injects some humor but doesn't elevate the narrative, ultimately feeling underutilized in a world brimming with potential.

Aiming for Style Over Substance

David Robert Mitchell's direction is ambitious, aiming for a stylized neo-noir aesthetic that captures the oddities of Los Angeles. The cinematography shines in its vibrant visuals and dreamlike sequences, contributing to the surreal atmosphere. However, the pacing often drags during extended scenes that seem more concerned with style than substance. Some stylistic choices, such as animation snippets, can be jarring and disrupt the narrative flow. While there are moments of brilliance, the overall execution leaves a lot to be desired, making the film feel bloated and meandering.

Curiosity Mixed with Frustration

Watching Under the Silver Lake is a mixed bag; there are moments of curiosity but also stretches of tedium that test patience. While the initial intrigue captivates, many scenes seem to drag on, leading to a feeling of frustration as the plot becomes increasingly convoluted. The film's attempts at humor often land flat, and you may find yourself checking your watch more than once. It's a surreal experience that can be both amusing and maddening, leaving you unsure of what to feel by the end. Moments of potential are overshadowed by a desire to be profound, making for a somewhat exhausting watch.