Jo Jo Rabbit

Jo Jo Rabbit                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  January 23, 2020

When I was a kid I watched the Rocky and Bullwinkle show and  there was a segment called “Fractured Fairy Tales”. Jo Jo Rabbit reminded me of those cartoons. The film abounds in Nazi symbols and propaganda but they are twisted and satirized. Jo Jo is a member of the Hitler youth (more like Ariyan day care). He truly wants to be a good Nazi and wears a pint size uniform with the sacred knife but his skills do not match his ardor. The other baby goose steppers make fun of him and torment him. Jo Jo is egged on by his imaginary friend Adolf Hitler. He is Jo Jo’s friend, cheerleader and nemesis. The actor who plays Hitler, Taika Waititi, is also the director, cool.

This is a dark satirical film. This version of Nazism is not a well oiled machine. Instead of one big Heil Hitler there are little HH’s which everyone gives in turn. The Gestapo is menacing, but inept. The Gestapo officer is played by lanky Stephen Merchant in search of Jews. Even though, this is a satire the anti-Semitism and atrocities are cringe worthy.

Jo Jo Rabbit is played by Roman Griffin Davis, who is eleven and started auditioning for this film when he was nine. His performance is amazing. He has comic timing, poise and can hit the emotional mark like a seasoned actor. Scarlett Johansson is Jo Jo’s single mother who lovingly protects him and encourages him even with the gloom  of war. Johansson’s performance in this movie is diametrically opposed to her performance in a Marriage Story and is a testament to her versatility.

Sam Rockwell is a treasure. There is something signature about him. Whatever character he plays you find a bit of Rockwell. Either with  his smile, twinkle in his eye or  soft shoe. He is the “nice Nazi” captain who runs the youth camp. Rebel Wilson is a brutish camp instructor. Her performance is brief but has her trademark irreverence and sly insults delight.

Tying shoelaces is a metaphor in the movie. My interpretation is this symbolizes love and caring. I remember the first time my son tied my shoelaces and it is one of my most tender memories.

Jo Jo Rabbit is nominated for best picture. It is a long shot, but if wins it deserves it unequivocally.

Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri

 Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri

The fiercest creature in the animal kingdom is a mother, meet Mildred Hayes. Mildred, played by Frances McDormand, is the fearless iron-willed mother whose daughter was raped, murdered and set on fire. The frustrating fruitless efforts by the local police inspire her to rent three billboards to write embarrassing remarks to egg on the police. The film is called a dark comedy; it tilts more to the dark. This film has many levels and the characters are complicated. The ensemble is terrific and deliver high caliber performances. When awards are given out they will be competing amongst themselves.

McDormand is a tour de force. Her steely determination seeking results is unstoppable. Putting up insulting billboards is the least of what she does for revenge. In a one and half hour movie she smiles once. This role is the antheses of the folky laid back character she won the academy award for Fargo.

 

Woody Harrelson is Chief Willoughby the target of Mildred’s ire. This is a bit of an unusual role for Harrelson who usually plays tough guys (True Detective, Natural Born Killers). He is frustrated and compassionate with Mildred. His role is brief, but it helps to frame the movie. He is a counter point to Mildred’s angst.

Sam Rockwell is phenomenal. He nearly steals all the lime light. He plays a red neck bigoted deputy who uses brutality first and doesn’t even ask questions later. During the movie he goes through a metamorphosis driving a critical part of the movie. If there is an awards contest it will be between Rockwell and McDormand.

Just a short comment on Peter Dinklage. He does not have a big role, but his character brings needed humanity. (I know I will burn in hell).

The ending was unique.

Thank God, we are nearing awards season and the studios are bringing out their serious films. Get a front seat and see this movie.