[psycho d]

The White Ribbon (2009). Michael Haneke's superb works exist on level not available to Hollywood. He uses subtle visions to evince the sources of historical evil, and as such his works can almost appear as trumped-up dishes of self indulgence. But if caught up in the realm of this crafty direction, his movies are nothing shy of masterpieces. Enter The White Ribbon. In watching this, the viewer is aware that something spectacular is happening in this slow paced and gorgeously shot film, but in flouting cinematic convention it can seem to fall flat. This is not a movie so much as the director's vision as to the framework that was to support the evil of the the first half of the century in question. In doing such, the restrained birth of iniquity in the story can be fully appreciated if not felt. The story was wonderfully woven, and the acting was top notch. A special nod goes to the children, for without their performances this film would not have worked. The direction and camera work needs no special mention, for this is a Haneke flick and all of his genius is employed. One word on the dialog: frank. If looking for a flick that follows directions like a chick reading a map in the passenger seat, then stay away from this flick, otherwise enter cautiously.
derek