O Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000)

This film is an instant classic and is hilarious from start to finish. Loosely based on Homer's The Odyssey, O Brother is the story of Ulysses Everett McGill and two other inmates who bust off the farm in search of a non-existent treasure. There are so many great things about this movie that it is hard to know where to start. This may be George Clooney's best acting performance, one that won him a Golden Globe. I cannot imagine anyone else who could do justice to this comically ridiculous and complex character. The supporting cast of this film is also amazing and adds a depth to this movie that few films possess. I feel like O Brother was our first glimpse into the genius that the Coen brothers are continuing to provide us, further exemplified with films like No Country for Old Men. The soundtrack of O Brother may be its most outstanding characteristic. The way the music is worked into the movie is amazing; it is seamless in a way that is usually reserved for musicals. I would say O Brother, Where Art Thou? has the best soundtrack since Forrest Gump. This is also one of the more quotable movies that I have ever seen. My brothers and I watch it regularly and constantly throw around lines like 'I'll only be 82'. There is also a lot of symbolism in the film. It is my opinion that the man pursuing the escapees represents the devil, although not everyone agrees with me. The idea that O Brother is loosely based on the Odyssey is little misleading. When they say loosely, they really mean it. There are a few details that are reminiscent of the Homer's work, but other than the presence of three sirens and a guy with an eye patch, the plot lines could not be more different. Furthermore, if one was to really analyze this film, you would notice that a lot of the minute details are pretty unrealistic, but in no way does this detract from the movie. It is meant to be a ridiculous, subtle farce that pushes the envelope, and it does so perfectly. I have seen this movie countless times, and look forward to seeing it again soon. My wife, as well as just about everyone I know, also really enjoyed it. For me, this is one of the best comedies ever made; I give O Brother, Where Art Thou? 4 and a half stars.