Video: A Study in Self Indulgence

By: Holley Sinn

Verdict:  Denied

So, this week's verdict was surprisingly difficult for me to come to.  I wasn't expecting that because, like so many, I immediately assumed that a film directed by Madonna would be a disaster.  However, as it turns out, the very facets of the film that I was sure I would abhor, I loved.  But, because Madonna has lived her life so very loudly, it was far too easy to find her personal message infused in the story.  So, even though the fashions and soundtrack were dazzling and emotionally charged, all I could think about was Madonna meditating on the life of Wallis Simpson and thinking about her own fragmented love life, punctuated by her marriage, and subsequent British accent procurement, to/from English director Guy Ritchie.  "Poor little rich girl...loved by so many...but still so miserable..."

"W./E." centers around two love stories.  Abbie Cornish stars as Wally, a young Sotheby's researcher turned wealthy housewife who discovers that her rich doctor husband, played by Richard Coyle, is having an affair...or potentially many of them.  All she wants is to get pregnant, but due to her young age, her doctor refuses to allow her to undergo IVF, and her husband refuses to get tested.  Wally is fascinated by a documentary on the life of Wallis Simpson, the famed married woman who stole the heart of King Edward VIII, prompting him to renounce his thrown.  A Wallis documentary, which seems to be playing constantly throughout the film, as well as a Wallis Simpson auction at Sotheby's, provide the transitions between Wally's life, and the life of her fascination, who is played by Andrea Riseborough.

Ms. Simpson's story tracks her initial abuse in her first marriage through her ultimate marriage to the Duke of Windsor, formerly known as the King of England.  There was another marriage in between to a man who stood idly by while his wife was courted by royalty right in front of him.  Meanwhile, back in modern times, Wally's relationship with her husband has escalated to violence, driving her into the waiting arms of a Russian Sotheby's security guard, played by Oscar Isaac.  When Wally discovers that the Sotheby's auction did not include a collection of letters exchanged between Wallis Simpson and her aunt during the time of her royal courtship, Wally makes a pilgrimage to France in an effort to see them.  Cut back to the early 40s when Wallis is regretting her decision to marry the former King as the couple is not allowed to return to England after a trip to Germany where they allegedly had dinner with Hitler.

"W./E." is a beautiful, sparkly, effervescent, disjointed mess.  The two stories do not actually contain the parallels that are being forced upon them, and despite Madonna's best efforts, it is difficult to feel terribly sorry for either female lead.  The cinematography is breath-taking, but the plot is so scattered that this film feels more like a two hour music video than a feature.  Speaking of music, Madonna's "Masterpiece" which plays during the credits is truly the highlight of the experience.  It is certainly worth a download and the Golden Globe it has already received.  But, all in all, "W./E." is simply eye and ear candy.  Listen to the soundtrack while thumbing through the latest issue of "Vogue", and you'll get the idea.  Plus, that probably won't eat up two hours of your day.

"W./E." is rated "R" for some sexuality and domestic violence imagery and is now playing in select theaters around the bay area.  Check your local listings for details.