Inside Llewyn Davis Review

Title: Inside Llewyn DavisMPAA Rating: RDirector: Joel and Ethan CoenStarring: Oscar Isaac, Carey Mulligan, Justin TimberlakeRuntime: 1 hr 45 mins

The year is 1961 and we are placed in Greenwich Village, New York City. On the stage is Llewyn Davis (Isaac), a young man trying to make ends meet by pouring his heart out over guitar strings. He does so one couch at a time. One particular couch that he favors is that belonging to Jim Berkey (Timberlake), however, it more than just that fine piece of furniture he’s after. You see Llewyn is having an affair with Jim’s wife Jean (Mulligan) who pretty much loathes him entirely because of it.

What We Think

Absolutely great film from the era folk tunes, to the original song “Please, Mr. Kennedy” there isn't a whole lot not to love here. In addition to getting great music and stunning performances, we get an emotional roller coaster ride out of Llewyn, who is just trying to get his shit together. It’s just every time Llewyn thinks things are headed his way, they are instead making a beeline into the sewer. At points, we feel, bad, and sorry for Llewyn while in other moments we feel like this dick had it coming.

Our Grade: A-

Isaac got an Oscar nomination, and deservedly so he carries this film on his shoulders along with the weight of this incredible character. He’s one you’ll root for despite his obvious flaws. Kudos to Timberlake who plays his part delightfully square making Jim’s obliviousness to his wife's affair more realistic, and puts major heat on Llewyn from a character standpoint because of gee gosh Jim’s such a nice guy!