by Zach Smith-Michaels
I think that Taika Waititi is one of the funniest film makers today. Waititi’s film have a sort of “effortless” quality. This isn’t to suggest that his films feel lazy, not at all! His films feel natural, and raw in the best ways. After seeing the trailer for Jojo Rabbit, I was in. This was going to be a day one screening for me. I walked into the theater ready to laugh non-stop for two hours as this film had the potential to be Waititi’s funniest movie yet! Well, that didn’t happen. What I saw was one of the most beautiful anti-hate films ever, and I don’t hesitate to say that Jojo Rabbit is a masterpiece.
When it comes to the performances, it business as usual for the cast in a Waititi movie: Everyone is great. No performance feels forced or out of place. Everyone is giving a top notch performance. Waititi as Jojo’s imaginary friend (Hitler) brings some incredibly well-crafted comedy to this film as do Rebel Wilson and Sam Rockwell. Scarlett Johansson doesn’t get a lot of screen time, but she does a lot with the time that she has. She plays Jojo’s loving mother, and I totally believed her performance.
But let’s talk about our lead actor, Roman Griffin Davis. Buckle up, kid because you’re about to fly. I am stunned that this is his first film. He turns in a magnificently dynamic performance. I believed this character and was happy to join him on his journey. I truly believe that we may see this kid get a few nominations. Maybe not an Oscar, but this performance is going to get some serious recognition! Also Thomasin McKenzie turned in an equally magnificent performance, and these two actors had impeccable chemistry.
I know what you’re wondering, is this movie funny? Yes, but it’s not relentlessly humorous like Taika’s other work. Thor: Ragnarok and What We Do in the Shadows come to mind when I think about this directors funniest films, but Jojo Rabbit displays a comedic director who is so confident in his story that he’s willing to put the comedy on the back burner for the sake of the film, and the movie is much better for it. This is a beautiful anti-hate film, and while the message of the film is clear, it’s never preachy. I think Waititi deserves a best screenplay nomination. This script is brilliant and I can’t wait to read this screenplay.
Jojo Rabbit moved me. This film stirred my heart and honestly inspires me to love more. Isn’t that what great cinema is supposed to do? I can see this movie disappointing a few people. Admittedly, I was waiting for the comedy to kick in for the first couple of minutes, but eventually I accepted that this wasn’t going to be like Taika’s other movies. The people behind me did lament the lack of humor and they left, but those of us who stand gave this film a round of applause.
I implore you to check this movie out. It’s something new from a beloved director, and that something new is a masterpiece.