Calgary International Film Festival 2012 - Wrong

Posted on Wednesday, October 03, 2012 at 09:55 PM

Review Type: Festival
Movie: Calgary International Film Festival

Wrong by Quentin Dupieux

By Troy Steinke

I should preface this review by saying that I'm a fan of absurdist comedy, and it will no doubt become evident in my glowing review of Quentin Dupieux's "Wrong". Sure, I can try to hide it - but the simple fact that I saw this film twice during CIFF remains. Never mind the brilliant photography, hilarious writing or the incredible soundtrack by French producer Mr.Oizo and someone named "Tahiti Boy" - for the time being we'll just pretend I'm being completely objective.

 "Wrong" begins with the apparent disappearance of Dolph Springer's (Jack Plotnick) dog, Paul.  So begins his quest to be reunited with his beloved pet. Through a series of strange conversations set in a ridiculous and surreal universe, Dolph eventually determines that Paul has been kidnapped (dognapped?) by the mysterious Master Chang (William Fitchner). Throughout the film we're treated to a host of hilarious interactions and settings; a palm tree that morphs into a pine tree, an office where it rains indoors, a man who paints your car without asking and a poop detective. I could go on, but to give anything else away would only serve as a detraction from the superbly unique experience. "Wrong" makes intelligent observations, and answers some of life's more engaging quandaries in all of its sublime silliness.

Apart from the well drawn characters and an entertaining plot, I thought the photography in the film was striking. One need only visit the film's website to see the visceral image of a yellow Saab cruising toward the infinite on a salt plain to realize that Dupieux constructs his scenes with care and attention to detail. The art is every bit as important as the action. On this point, I feel its important to note that if you saw the film at the Globe theatre on Sunday, the brightness was set a bit too high to fully appreciate the depth of contrast in the film. I'd definitely recommend taking in the Bluray when it gets a home release.