Timothée Chalamet delivers a compelling performance in Marty Supreme, a film directed by Josh Safdie, marking a new chapter for the Safdie brothers post-breakup. Released in 2024, the film delves into the psyche of an obsessive egomaniac, a theme both brothers have explored in their recent works.
The film, rated at ★★★½ and running for 149 minutes, showcases Chalamet as Marty Mauser, a character driven by a singular ambition that mirrors past roles in his career. Set in 1952 America, Marty is a table tennis player who dreams of fame but is stuck working in his uncle’s Brooklyn shoe shop. His journey is a dark comedy filled with hustling antics and audacious stunts.
The Safdie Brothers’ Divergent Paths
The release of Marty Supreme follows Benny Safdie’s The Smashing Machine, starring Dwayne Johnson, which took a calmer approach to the sports drama genre. In contrast, Josh Safdie’s film retains the frenetic energy reminiscent of their earlier collaboration, Uncut Gems.
Chalamet’s portrayal of Marty Mauser is a study in youthful ambition, set against the backdrop of a sport that offers little in terms of fame and fortune. The character’s relentless hustle, whether in a New Jersey bowling alley or with a movie star played by Gwyneth Paltrow, reflects a deeper commentary on ambition and morality.
Character and Cinematic Craft
Based loosely on real-life table tennis champion Martin Reisman, Marty Supreme is a blend of picaresque comedy and slapstick violence. The film’s cinematography by Darius Khondji adds a gritty realism, a signature of the Safdie brothers’ style. The narrative explores themes of identity and survival, with Marty as a Jewish underdog against the WASP establishment.
Despite being a film about table tennis, the sport serves more as a metaphor for Marty’s life. His quick reflexes and ability to pivot mirror his approach to life’s challenges. Josh Safdie’s storytelling similarly navigates complex emotional landscapes, culminating in a finale that is both sentimental and ironic.
Exploring Other Cinematic Landscapes
Meanwhile, Primate, directed by Johannes Roberts, offers a stark contrast with its horror narrative. Rated ★★★, the film is a domestic horror story featuring a chimpanzee turned monster. Set in Hawaii, it explores themes of isolation and survival, with Roberts drawing inspiration from Stephen King’s Cujo.
The film’s practical effects, eschewing CGI in favor of actor Miguel Torres Umba in a suit, add a visceral realism. The story unfolds with predictable horror conventions, yet maintains a gripping pace that keeps audiences engaged.
International Cinema: “Somebody to Love” and “The Secret Agent”
In the realm of international cinema, Paolo Genovese’s Somebody to Love offers a comedic exploration of human relationships, rated ★★½. The film draws comparisons to Inside Out and Herman’s Head, as it navigates the inner dialogues of its characters during a romantic encounter.
On a more serious note, The Secret Agent, directed by Kleber Mendonça Filho, presents a gripping narrative set in 1970s Brazil. Rated ★★★★, the film examines the pervasive corruption under the military dictatorship. Wagner Moura’s portrayal of Armando, a former professor on the run, earned him a Golden Globe for Best Actor.
The film’s intricate storytelling and historical context offer a profound commentary on survival and resistance, blending suspense with gallows humor. The film’s success at the Golden Globes and its Oscar nomination highlight its international acclaim.
As these films demonstrate, the cinematic landscape continues to evolve, exploring diverse themes and narratives that resonate with audiences worldwide. Each film, from Marty Supreme to The Secret Agent, offers a unique perspective on ambition, identity, and resilience in the face of adversity.
