Everything is Illuminated: Perfect balance of drama and comedy

The first (and to date, only) film written/directed by Liev Schreiber, tells the hugely profound yet funny story of a quirky New Yorker, travelling through Ukraine in search of his past, accompanied by an unusual guide "committee" comprised of an odd grandfather/grandson duo and their dog. A story that incidentally is told with astonishing mastery.

One of a kind. Let's hope that will change

This adaptation of Jonathan Safran Foer's Everything is Illuminated is the kind of film that makes you glad movies exist, such is the joy of watching it. Beyond being a skilfully directed picture, it counts on beautiful cinematography, a great soundtrack, and editing that is tightly integrated with the sound design, giving a nice dynamic to the film. [...]

All that, is without mentioning the cast. Main character Jonathan is portrayed by Elijah Wood, in what could be defined as the pinnacle of subtle acting, but without loosing his ability to convey emotions, actually giving great depth to the performance. The grandson component of the guide duo, Alex, is made into an incredibly funny character, by the splendid performance of Eugene Hutz, who also does a great job at the inspiring narration. While his grandfather's temper is displayed through the acting of Boris Leskin.

Although the characters are indeed very funny, and the movie chooses to focus on that aspect in the beginning, it becomes increasingly deep and intense throughout. And it is nice to see that the entirety of the cast is able to keep up with the changing mood, where even the most lively of characters, such as Alex, can display grave emotions.

After such an astonishing film, one can only wonder why Liev Schreiber hasn't tackled another such project, in the more than ten years passed since Everything is Illuminated. Let's just hope he decides to change that soon!

Where you illuminated by this film? Do you expect Liev Schreiber to direct ever again? Share your thoughts in the comments bellow!