Jarmusch's "Limits of Control" Premiere

I had the great privilege to attend my first ever independent film premiere for Jim Jarmusch's new feature, "The Limits of Control" last night at the Landmark Sunshine Cinemas on East Houston.

Ryan works at PointBlank Films as an intern, and Jim, along with colleagues Carter and Stacey, invited both of us to view the film amongst cast, crew and fans. The evening was topped by a quaint dinner party at Shang's on Orchard Street, where Bill Murray, Tilda Swinton, Paz de la Huerta, John Hurt, Gael Garcia Bernal, Isaac De Bankolé, (and Amos Poe!) made merry with champagne, Ketel One, and jerk chicken. I must say I was partial to the fried rice. Best I've ever had.

But enough about the party! The film was truly a sight to behold, shot by Christopher Doyle and written by Jarmusch himself. I have never paid more attention to each and every single frame as I had in this piece. De Bankolé's placid exterior was unmoving, yet strangely interesting. The hallucinogenic music (from Boris, and even Jarmusch and Carter's own band) created a very cinematic reality that while never bordering on satirical, did sort of make you wonder.....what's going on here?

Very European, I would say, if I had enough knowledge of European movies to say so. I CAN say that I enjoyed the acting, especially De Bankolé, who had no other way of expressing himself but through his unflinching face and consciously controlled movements. Every other character had little time on screen, but made it count (even down to the lowly Spanish waiter), as each were memorable and unique in personality.

Ask me what they were talking about and why?......the hell if I know, at least for now. But I definitely listened. I have to admit, the story is still playing back in my mind as I attempt to understand the hidden meanings. But is a Jarmusch film really meant for analysis? He has said himself that a film should be about the experience.........and I suppose that in this case, it certainly was.