Set in Depression-era Tennessee in the 1930s and loosely based on an old American folk tale, Get Low puts Robert Duvall back where he belongs; in the spotlight.
Looking like he’s just been dragged through a hedge backwards and not having had a main role since 1998’s The Apostle, Robert Duvall glides across our screens playing central character and local hermit, Felix Bush. His grunting, unpredictable and bushy faced portrayal of the grumpy coot brings a charming mystery to the character that will grip you till the end. Bush’s ploy to attend his own funeral before his death is the crux of the plot, accelerated by a cast of talented actors with juxtaposing inputs. Get Low is a movie with melancholic tones that collide with bursts of impish humour, much provided by the cheekily avaricious Bill Murray who plays a funeral director. Heartwarming Sissy Spacek touches the ambiance with her caring femininity and boisterous confrontations, refreshing us with a glistening performance.
First-time director Aaron Schneider’s meticulously shot production with its immaculate design work is definitely worth checking out. Featuring some enthralling performa nces from Murray, Spacek and last but by no means least the great Duvall, you might find yourself whimpering unexpectedly in this looming yet comical adaptation of a Tennessee fable.