For many, Michel Gondry’s latest film Be Kind Rewind is merely an exercise in pretentious filmmaking. For others, it is a cool collaboration of classic films. But for the astute viewer, Be Kind Rewind is an exploitation-adventure through the annals of modern cinema and a tribute to when movies had heart. Simply put, Gondry’s film is essentially the rebirth of cinema.
The Set Up
The basic story follows the archetype of most 80s/early 90s movies: kids are given responsibility, responsibility turns into dilemma, dilemma turns into creativity, creativity turns back into dilemma, and finally dilemma turns into happy ending. The main characters Jerry (a junk yard worker) and Mike (a video store employre), played by Jack Black and Mos Def respectively, have to rebuild Be Kind Rewind’s video collection, after an electrifying accident. Of course, Mr. Fletcher (Danny Glover) warned Mike to keep Jerry out of the store. From here, the pair decides to remake the movies and sell them for an enlarged profit. The story unfolds with elaborate scenes, creative visuals, and witty dialogue, all ending in an elaborate scene involving a tribute video to the legendary Fats Wallace.
Jack Black Brings the Flair
With that said, the movie delivers the normal Gondry visuals mixed with a unique story. Risking another mainstream flop (2006’s Science of Sleep), Gondry called on the talents of Jack Black and cult favorite Danny Glover. The two brought a mainstream flair, but were able to keep the movie’s innate, indie style. Because of this, the general community received the movie with open arms.
The plot is something that lacks originality, but like Gondry’s past attempts, the movie excels in the creative department. For many, the sweded films (the remakes as they are referred to as in the movie) provide a needed example of what creative cinema could be. This part of the movie was dazzling and inspiring. Basically, Gondry illustrates what can be made without the aide of over-the-top computer graphics. The style and final product, however, are nothing more than what can be made by children in their own backyards. And that is the inspiring part!
A Call to Filmmakers Everywhere
Because the current film market has been crushed with sappy remakes, it is important for the general population to remember that films are supposed to have heart. Much like what the characters on screen are trying to develop throughout the film (both through trying to save the video store and creating their Fats Wallace movie), the essence of a movie needs to be greater than the cause. Essentially, Gondry created a movie that is a metaphor for itself. And while Be Kind… probably won’t hit the stardom levels of Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, it will stand as an example of how a film can entertain a viewer through visuals, while capturing their heart at the same time.
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