| Mirabelle (Claire
Danes) sells gloves in an elegant department store. No one
ever buys any gloves. She stands there, gloriously elegant and
beautiful, with nothing to do but stare off into blank space.
She exists there to pass time and collect a paycheck. Ray (Steve
Martin) is the quintessential charmer, able to disarm with a single
self-effacing quip or an all too honest, yet subtle, compliment.
He literally charms the clothes off of Mirabelle despite the vast
age difference.
Jeremy (Jason Schwartzman) is an over-eager failed musician who
constantly chatters his way into Mirabelle's life. He is
desperate to charm her in the ways that Ray so casually manages with
the most minimal effort.
Are you flirting with me?
Ray is quite happy to keep his relationship completely casual.
They meet for dates... He treats her to dinners that cost more than
her monthly rent... He buys her pretty dresses and expensive
jewelery... The make passionate love... He leaves the next morning.
Mirabelle is falling in love. She wants more than Ray is
prepared to offer. She realizes that she could have more from
Jeremy. And thus, she is faced with a decision.
"Shopgirl" is a special film, bursting with the same lessons
learned from "Lost in Translation". However, this film has a
very unique feel... lulling you with wistful desires and quiet
solemnity. It is one of the most elegantly scribed screenplays
of 2005. At times, it feels like poetry.
I really began to care about these characters, especially
Mirabelle, whose destiny hangs in the balance. The script
truly earns your emotions.
It is the kind of film that lingers with you long after the
credits roll. It will assuredly be one of those movies that
will improve with time and in repeated viewings. "Shopgirl" is
charming and intelligent and insightful... it is one of the best
films of 2005.
Claire Danes and Steve Martin
contemplate the future. |
