Films > Film Reviews

Tale of Tales

18/06/16

Probably one of the strangest films I’ve seen, this Italian-French-British production tickles the fantasy tastebuds leaving you lapping up a rich film.

We see three stories; Queen of Longtrellis (Salma Hayek) is adamant her miraculous child cannot see his friend, leading her to severely overprotect him. In another tale we find less than doting father of Highhills (Toby Jones) taking an amazed interest in an insect over his daughter Violet (Bebe Cave). Then there’re the haggard sisters who accidentally gain the attentions of King of Strongcliff (Vincent Cassel).

Together these are a wonderful collection of stories, bonkers but wonderful. Taken from the works of Italian poet Giambattista Basile this film moves between three rather interesting tales. This fantasy horror movie feels far from rushed or pacy, in fact it’s a movie that takes its time in breathing surreal and dark life into every inch of the frame.

For his first English language movie as director, Matteo Garrone paints a beautiful portrait. I feel that’s the best word to use because upon viewing this, you’ll notice what a work of art this film is. The colours, texture, costumes and more besides help give it a fully embodied depth, making it more than a paper-thin fantasy. Garrone directs knowing how to handle something very different for audience members seeking exactly that.

Amongst the blood, comedic moments and mature quality, this movie is helped by a fantastic score. Alexandre Desplat gifts this fantastical folklore-filled feature with some engrossing music. From the tension of the moment a king goes in search of a sea monster to the fleeing of an ogre, this movie is scored wonderfully and looks the same thanks to the painting/cinematography by Peter Suschitzky.

Salma Hayek is an interesting watch even if her segment isn’t the most interesting of the trio. She’s almost silent as a mother wanting to look after her son. Vincent Cassel is funny and charming yet mildly sleazy as the Casanova of the piece. Toby Jones acts a buffoonish man playing comedic delight in finding love for a flea. Bebe Cave is bright eyed and loved up but wants more, then gets to do more gritty acting as she finds herself in a trapped situation. Shirley Henderson and Hayley Carmichael as the wrinkled siblings are very good. Their section is my favourite and the way they play their parts is captivating to watch.

Sometimes slow but always bursting with Italian Baroque style, eye opening dark moments and beautiful shots, this is a movie to wallow in just for that niche difference and visual design.

7.5/10