Fargo

I got back home from school this afternoon, frozen to the bone (this September has been quite chilly), I sat at the computer and put on Fargo. Big mistake, my teeth are still chattering. That said, the film never bored me, the Coen brothers’ direction is so distinctive that it always feels like a refreshment after a lot of bland movies. The basic plot structure is not that original, what makes the story unforgettable is the place it’s set, which is inhabited by maybe one normal character for every one hundred comical figures, and the very dark humour. (09/17/2008)

I still remember the campaign that Fargo had as a TV premiere on HBO, but I never saw it. There was really no reason not to watch it. The cast is likable, and the subject matter is one that captures the attention, but until there was a series on the horizon, there was no need to rush into it. I am now very excited for Season 2 with Kirsten Dunst and I enjoyed the original film very much. It's matured just enough because now I know who Frances and Steve are. (10/12/2015)

Fargo has its flaws, and it's true that the attempt at a cynical-ironic caricature of reality hurts a bit the authenticity that, for example, the snow and dense atmosphere of the similarly weighed down A Simple Plan boasts, but the scenes are such an electrifying whirlwind of captivating filmmaking that you simply won't find a more iconic achievement by the famous Coens. What's more, it all clicks into a story that hinges on depression and bizarreness in a literally unforgettable way, underscored by amazing actors, precise cinematography and a downright delicious soundtrack. William H. Macy is one of life's most compelling losers, and Peter Stormare is a villain the sight of whom is enough to make the blood run cold... 90% (04/21/2012)

A superb thriller in the Coens’ unmistakable style. Everything played into their hands: 1) the magnificently bleak mood of winter Minnesota, 2) the simple yet impressive soundtrack, 3) Macey and his characterful portrayal of mean-spirited jerk and underdog, as only he can play it, 4) the pair of goons, irresistibly played by Buscemi and Stormare. Add to this the Coens' absurdist humour (e.g. the scene where Buscemi buries the money in the snow), and the final rating is easy. Only the Oscar to McDormand is a bit of a mystery to me. (05/11/2003)

Technically, it’s quite skillful (brutal action scenes), musically impressively minimalist, and in the second half the film is also suspenseful and entertaining, but the main problem of my criticism is probably in the direction. I'm not the type who drools over humor of the Coens, quite the opposite. It gets on my nerves and some scenes felt like a light rip-off of Tarantino's style. (07/01/2005)