Frank the Assassin

As a long time movie lover - first time reviewer, I'll exploit the cliché, "I don't know much but I know what I like" disclaimer to preface my review of Frank the Assassin, written and directed by Cameron Laventure. Rather than offer a smattering of comments on the entire film I'll focus on what was to me the most striking scene and tribute to not only the director's vision, but to the soundtrack, and the editor's expertise; Frank pulling up to the blue house, parking and getting out of the car. I could say that the scene is crisp, clean, and altogether artfully executed but I'd rather show it than tell it: Soundtrack – paper folding – soundtrack – door open and shut – cessation of soundtrack (all in perfect harmony) gun on dashboard (but wisely not panned in upon to overemphasize thus risk insult to the audience). Watch and listen. Listen and watch again. Don't take a relatively simple scene for granted. And, tell me you don't find it adeptly, confidently orchestrated. Can a single scene capture what is virtuous about filmmaking? Sure. Watch Adam Sandler with a tire iron in hand in Punch Drunk Love. You can abhor violence and still appreciate the choreography of that sequence. Can an assassin win audience sympathy? Sure. Just like a pimp…when he's not good at being a pimp i.e. Hustle and Flow. Zack Sztanyo's assassin strikes just the right tone. Can you say…lovable assassin? For anyone who chose to read this review to the end, I'll leave you with one visual that strikes sublime: Alone and drinking hot chocolate with marshmallows while STILL WEARING HIS ASSASSIN GLOVES! -Christine Stevenson, Movie Lover (as Dad would say, "That was a good filum")