Bohemian Rhapsody is fairly unfocused because it covers several stages of Mercury's life, touching on many ideas. The script covers familial acceptance, racism, sexuality, relationships, fame, addiction, and death. Everything is honored and worthy, but Bohemian Rhapsody's messages are cluttered. Furthermore, because it doesn't examine any specific conflict, it feels safe and formulaic. Still, the film hits its beats and broaches substantive topics, even if it's sanitized. Plus, Rami Malek is a force, using his physicality and facial expressions to produce emotional range. Unfortunately, nobody else is complex, but Malek's performance is stellar enough to evoke sympathy.
Technically, Bohemian Rhapsody is flavorful. Its pacing is hasty, but various montages, transitions, dissolves, and superimpositions create rhythm and connection. Similarly, its visuals awkwardly execute drama scenes, but employ movement, composition, lighting, focus, framing, and depth. Thus, intimate moments are muddled but active ones are ignited. Meanwhile, effects are supportive, the direction is expressive, and the production is elaborate. Plus, the sound uses J-cuts, echoes, overlaps, volume, and complex ambiance. Lastly, the iconic music gets trans-diegetic and deconstructed to heighten meaning. Overall, Bohemian Rhapsody is emotionally flawed, but its craft shines through.
Writing: 8/10
Direction: 9/10
Cinematography: 8/10
Acting: 9/10
Editing: 8/10
Sound: 9/10
Score/Soundtrack: 10/10
Production Design: 8/10
Casting: 9/10
Effects: 8/10
Overall Score: 8.6/10
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