Directed by Peter Farrelly and starring Mahershala Ali, Viggo Mortensen and Linda Cardellini, Green Book tells the story of the great friendship between a working-class Italian-American bouncer/driver and an African-American classical pianist. Since Farrelly’s story is set in 1960s America, racial tensions play a significant part in the movie. Nevertheless, the main focus is very much on the developing friendship between the two men.

There’s a number of heartbreaking scenes in Green Book but there are definitely far more that’ll make you smile and have you thinking about the great friends you have and/or want in your life. You may also be moved to be even kinder than I’m certain you already are.

What stands out most for me about Green Book, in addition to the great performances, is the realisation that Green Book is one of those movies with a rhythm so perfect that there wasn’t a single moment when I questioned any of the director/editor’s choices. Everything just flowed beautifully, as I let myself be led by the eyes without hesitation or resistance, until the very end.

Some of the music in Green Book definitely had me contemplating dressing up and showing up at the nearest jazz venue, not that the main music featured is jazz, mind you. I also thoroughly enjoyed Mortensen’s performance as one of the most convincing non-Italians to play an Italian-American that I’ve ever seen on screen. 

Watch Green Book because it’s good, and to see an example of an inspiring, growing friendship/respect between two men. One that alters them both.

Happy Film Loving,

G