The Band's Visit (Israel, 2007)
Directed by Eran Kolirin
***3/4
Boy, what a delightful film! This dead-pan, stylized wonder reminded me of Aki Kaurismaki, Jim Jarmusch or even at times Wes Anderson. Cinematically, it's a fascinating example of great storytelling that keeps you hooked with what's going to happen next, even though there are no bullets, car chases or pop songs to keep your blood hopping. Just a simple premise that gets worked out beautifully: an Egyptian band (a very formal one at that) gets dropped off at the wrong place in the middle of Israel, and has to call on the locals for help. I couldn't remember such a refreshing film experience for months! (and for me, that's quite a compliment)
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