Tiffany Scott
Exec. Business Manager
“Gloria Bell” exceeds expectations with terrific acting from lead characters and an exceptional soundtrack.
The film was directed by Sebastian Lelio and written by Alice Boher. Produced by Fabula, the film was released to theaters nationwide on March 8th. The movie is a remake of the 2013 film “Gloria,” also directed by Lelio. Featured actors are Julianne Moore as Gloria, Alanna Ubach as Veronica and John Turturro as Arnold.
Gloria is a middle-aged divorcee who spends her days at a constricting office job and her nights on the dance floor of clubs in Los Angeles. One night, she meets Arnold, also a recent divorcee, who is trying to start over but still carries baggage of his past relationship. The story then follows Gloria as she goes through the joys of budding love and the complications of family, dating and identity.
“Gloria Bell” gave Moore center stage to do the rich, sensational work that is rare in Hollywood for actresses in their 50s. Moore’s performance is extremely fun and entertaining, balancing strength and vulnerability in her committed portrayal. Moore excells at acquiring the empathy and earnestness in passive, repressed women wanting to break out of their shells.
The film is also filled with musical performances. Moore’s singing, though a little nasally, gives the movie a lighter tone that adds to the lively ambiance of the movie. In addition to the singing, the soundtrack is filled with 1980s hits, which gives the film a slightly nostalgic mood.
The 2013 edition of “Gloria” is extraordinary with acting from Paulina Garcia, but this remake is definitely comparable. First-time viewers will undoubtedly be impressed by the 2019 remake and do not consider watching the original. However, audiences familiar with the first movie may find themselves watching a film almost identical to the original. Still, Lelio’s screenplay manages to impress while navigating familiar territory with a new vibrant authenticity.
“Gloria Bell” excellently explores the indignities of aging. The film remarkably focuses primarily on the experiences of a woman in her 50s, a character type often forgotten or cast aside in the film industry. With Gloria’s lively personality and unique individuality, the movie is an event anyone will enjoy, not just middle-aged women. The film is filled with striking cinematography and cheerful music, making for an overall great movie.
Released on March 8th, “Gloria Bell” is rated R and can be seen in theaters worldwide.
Leave a Reply