The Place Beyond the Pines
Working as a motorcycle stunt rider in a traveling circus, Luke (Ryan Gosling), finds the love of his life, Romina (Eva Mendes), in the small community of Schenectady, New York. Attracted by his mysterious nature the two hit it off; however, despite his best intentions Luke doesn’t quite know how to function as an upright standing citizen and leaves Romina pregnant. Returning a year later with new priorities Luke aims to settle in with Romina and the son he hasn’t met yet. Unsure of how to help, Luke and his friend Robin (Ben Mendelsohn) turn to robbing banks to get cash, money to provide for Romina and son. Digging himself in deeper and deeper eventually the law, specifically, officer Avery (Bradley Cooper) catches up with Luke. Connected by fate the impact Luke and Avery have on each other will span generations. Meanwhile, honesty and integrity is questioned in the Schenectady police department, at the center of the mess is Detective Deluca (Ray Liotta). Washing one’s self of one’s sins and attempting to provide a clean start for their sons and families, how to provide the best for their loved ones, and how to deal with their own errors is at the core of this difficult drama.
Directed by Derek Cianfrance and co-written by Cianfrance, Ben Coccio, and Darius Marader, The Place Beyond the Pines illustrates Cianfrance’s continued growth and development as a director of honest and gritty storytelling, examining human nature, and real people in real situations. In a recent interview with Cianfrance I had a chance to discuss the writing process, a five year project that began in 2007. From the outset several ideas were apparent: writingprocess
From these ideas and 30+ revisions the film that became “Pines” as Cianfrance affectionately calls it was born. Masterful acting from the ensemble breathes life into all of the characters further, including notable performances from Rose Byrne, Emory Cohen, and Dane DeHaan. Lending to the feel of the film was the fact that the film was indeed shot on 35mm film, discussing the importance of film over digital media Cianfrance had this to say: Derekonfilm
To round things out the film contains a haunting score, designed in part by alternative vocal gymnast and experimental musical genius Mike Patton (Faith No More, Mr. Bungle, Fantomas, Tomahawk), how the marriage of Pines and Patton came to be Cianfrance explains: onPatton
Cinefiles take note, this is one to pay attention to, it’s imperfections are easily overlooked while it’s distinct independent feel will seduce. This one’s about quality film making. Worth it, The Place Beyond the Pines is rated R.
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