I, Tonya is irreverent yet empathetic. It covers themes of feminine ideals, cycles of abuse, classism, cognitive dissonance, sensationalism, and media dehumanization. The imperfect victim protagonist challenges viewers to broaden their sympathy. There's dark humor, motivated characters, clashing perspectives, dynamic relationships, productive dialogue, and earned growth. The powerhouse acting adds conflicting layers, outbursts, raw vulnerability, chemistry, physicality, comedic timing, underlying pain, and a devastating release. It's meta, a critique of the American dream, and an insightful look at tragic truths. Ultimately, I, Tonya balances wicked entertainment and sobering sincerity.
Technically, I, Tonya has sharp tones and clever structure. Its imagery uses focus, framing, oners, filters, and dramatic motion. The editing adds smash cuts, montages, cross cuts, slo-mo, split screens, jump cuts, cutaways, intercuts, and pacing. Its sound offers split cuts, narration, quiet, emphasis, risers, and muffling. The jukebox music can be obvious but provides meaningful lyrics, setting, and rebel moods. Its deglamorized production design establishes the era, scale, and lifestyle. The effects utilize makeup, stunts, gunshots, and digital work. Its famous cast shines with against-type talent. Overall, I, Tonya is a contrasting blend of creativity, commentary, and heart.
Writing: 9/10
Direction: 9/10
Cinematography: 8/10
Acting: 10/10
Editing: 9/10
Sound: 7/10
Score/Soundtrack: 8/10
Production Design: 8/10
Casting: 9/10
Effects: 8/10
Overall Score: 8.5/10
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