Saw Whit Stillman's "Damsels in Distress" with friends and I was the only one who really liked this funny, charming film - precisely because of its wonderfully, self-consciously spoken dialogue, and the eccentricity of Stillman's characters. Always a surprise to hear language that is so original - even if intentionally stilted. I was constantly aware that this is theater giving homage to 50's film even to the unflattering "cinch belt" the main character Violet wears with her dresses.
The film is set in a College environment but there is not much studying going on and the war between the sexes is carried on with many original parries and thrusts. Tap Dancing and "scents - like smells" among other forms of dance craze's are the answer to life's "tailspins." The musical numbers are delightful despite the awkwardness of the participants - these dances do not have Fred and Ginger's graceful mobility. But never mind!
The film is set in a College environment but there is not much studying going on and the war between the sexes is carried on with many original parries and thrusts. Tap Dancing and "scents - like smells" among other forms of dance craze's are the answer to life's "tailspins." The musical numbers are delightful despite the awkwardness of the participants - these dances do not have Fred and Ginger's graceful mobility. But never mind!
