I came across the Jim Jarmusch film “Broken Flowers” on Netflix which features a subtle, comedic, and dramatic performance from Bill Murray. He is one those incredible actors whose face on screen is worth a thousand words. The silent moments convey a whole history and iconography that can never be demonstrated through dialogue.
I’m a fan of “Stranger Than Paradise”, “Down by Law”, and “Dead Man”. Jim Jarmusch creates such an understated atmosphere that it allows actors to develop unique characterizations that build upon the original screenplay. Jeffrey Wright, Jessica Lange, Sharon Stone, Julie Delpy, and Christopher McDonald are among the ensemble cast. Bill Murray plays a wealthy retired bachelor who receives a letter in the mail from am anonymous ex-girlfriend who claims he has a teenage son. He begins a journey around the country organized by his amateur sleuth neighbor, played by Jeffrey Wright, as he comes to terms with his failed relationships while trying to discover the mystery mother.
Below is a trailer. Check it out. It’s currently streaming on Netflix. “Broken Flowers” received the “Grand Prize of the Jury” at the 2005 Cannes Film Festival.