Richard Linklater’s adaptation of Maria Semple’s novel of the same name isn’t really a good film it is a showcase for a great performance. Basically it shows off just what a talent Blanchett is and what she can do with a role.
Unlike the book, the film doesn't deliver no the mystery in the title. Its approach to the story of a brilliant mind constrained by her own ways of interacting with a world not ready for her, and her escape from that is presented here in a very straight forward way leaving out the sort of delicious mystery the book offers. A story like this requires a certain unconventionality yet Linklater sticks to a fairly common approach, which almost makes Bernadette’s tale seem far fetched and somewhat ridiculous. the game of chase at the bottom of the world just feels forced and coincidental in a way that is unbelievable. If Linklater had found a way to give magic to his story, he could have pulled this off but he doesnt.
But what he does is stand back and let his lead find her way. Blanchett is, as usual, gripping to watch and she makes her remarkable character into someone unstoppable. Her Bernadette is a force of nature and fully realized, with nooks and crannies of character and personality that make it impossible to take your eyes off her.
So while Where’d You Go Bernadette isn’t a great film it remains watchable for Cate.
Where's You Go, Bernadette
Starring: Cate Blanchett, Billy Crudup, Kristen Wiig, Judy Greer, Laurence Fishbourne, Steve Zahn, Megan Mullally
Writer/Director: Richard Linklater
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