Plot: Two brothers (Ewan McGregor and Colin Farrell) have financial problems in England. When their rich uncle (Tom Wilkinson) makes a rare appearance, both of them want favors, but he has a request of his own that throws the brothers into a world of chaos. Who’s it for: This is a lighter version of “Match Point,” but still in the same ballpark. If you are looking for Woody Allen or for someone to act like him, you aren’t going to get it here.
Expectations: All I knew was Woody Allen, Ewan McGregor and Colin Farrell. This was enough for me as two of the three have been consistently good throughout the years. No Mr. Farrell, I wasn’t referring to you.
SCORECARD Actors: Ewan McGregor as Ian: Ian is addicted to the finer things in life, which includes cars, investing and women. He lusts after an actress and that is the driving force into considering Uncle Howard’s proposal. Grade: 8
Colin Farrell as Terry: Once upon a time, Farrell was brilliant in a small film called “Tigerland.” Then came a slew of cocky leading men. That’s not the case here. Gambling is Terry’s downfall and watching him be humble and riddled with guilt is the best part of this film. Grade: 9
Talking: The most compelling moments of “Cassandra’s Dream” are off-screen. Normally this is a downfall, but Allen makes it work. The highs and lows of Terry’s gambling are mainly talked about, and the violence Ian and Terry go through is never fully shown. Grade: 7
Sights and sounds: There is something sinister approaching. The only way we know this throughout the first half of the film is the beautiful, tense score. I had sweaty palms on more than one occasion. Grade: 7
OVERALL It’s amazing to watch Woody Allen reinvent himself. First with “Match Point” and now with “Cassandra’s Dream.” The entire first half of the film is the set-up. The only indication that something truly terrible is afoot is the beautiful score. The vices of men are on display here; power, gambling and women, we’ve got it all. The attempt is to go as subtle and real as possible, and it works. This is Farrell’s best work in years and proof that Woody Allen is an old dog, and these are new tricks.
Overall Grade: 8 out of 10