Adaptation

Movie Name: Adaptation
Year of Release: 2002

Director: Spike Jonze

Stars: Nicolas Cage, Meryl Streep, Chris Cooper, Tilda Swinton, Cara Seymour, Curtis Hanson, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Judy Greer, Brian Cox, Ron Livingston, Doug Jones

Genre: Comedy, Drama

Score out of ten (whole numbers only): 8
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Synopsis:

Following the success of his first feature, "Being John Malkovich", director Spike Jonze and writer Charlie Kaufman reunited for another collaboration. "Adaptation" which is a loose adaptation of the book "The Orchid Thief" by Susan Orlean, became something quite different. The film follows the story of Charlie Kaufman, a screenwriter in Hollywood, who is trying to adapt the book "The Orchid Thief" by Susan Orlean. Charlie soon finds himself with a serious case of writer's block when he realizes the book isn't adaptable. Much to his frustration, his twin brother Donald moves in, and decides to break into screenwriting also. Unlike Charlie, Donald is more outgoing, and has more success with women. Both brothers get entwined with Susan Orlean's personal life, and herself is romantically involved with the man featured in her book, John Laroche. These relationships have an unexpected outcome as Charlie desperately tries to finish his screenplay.
"Adaptation" is another great example of two unique voices in film meeting and creating something distinctively original. The film is a testament and a glimpse into the creative process, also giving an interesting and ironic view at the art of screenwriting. The irony also lies in how Charlie Kaufman portrays himself to be insecure and neurotic, giving his twin brother (or alter ego), all the qualities he wishes he had. It's a very intelligent film, that works on many different levels, all the while giving the trio of lead performers a chance to truly excel. Nicolas Cage, Meryl Streep and Chris Cooper are phenomenal, as is the entire supporting cast (including Tilda Swinton and Brian Cox). The cinematography from Lance Acord is beautiful, as is the score of the eternally underrated Carter Burwell. A great film worth watching!