O’ Brother, Where Art Thou?

O’ Brother Where Art Thou is an epic musical-comedy by the Coen Brothers that is loosely based on Homer’s “The Odyssey”. So loosely, as a matter of fact, that the main character of the movie and the main character of the book share the same name. The main character in the book “The Odyssey” is named “Ulysses”, while the main character in “O’ Brother Where Art Thou” is named “Ulysses Everett McGill”. Even though he only goes by “Everett” through most of the movie.  

Like most Coen Brothers’ movies, it has a long and complicated storyline, thanks to its association with “The Odyssey”, but it isn’t hard to follow. In fact, It’s a very fun and playful movie with a lot of great scenes, thanks to the fabulous acting done by the all of the people involved. The dialogue is well written and each character really interacts well with each other not only because of their acting chops, but also because of what they’re saying. Because if the script is poor, it doesn’t really matter how you perform it. 

The music is a big part of the movie too. It’s all bluegrass, or old-timey period music from around that era. I even own this soundtrack. It’s like the only movie soundtrack I’ve ever bought. Well, this and “Heavy Metal”. But, I don’t even like this kind of music for the most part, and was compelled to go out and buy this album. And I listened to it. It’s not bad. It’s soothing, in a way. Like a relaxation tape in a bubble bath with candles lit around you. The soundtrack won awards. That’s probably why… 

But following the trio on their epic journey throughout the movie isn’t only about them. There are other characters that have great performances. Like Governor Menelaius “Pappy” O’ Daniel. The obese, irritable governor of Mississippi who is running for reelection, and can’t seem to get his campaign to go in his favor. Or George Nelson, the ramped-up criminal, on the run from the law, without a care in the world.  

And just like most other Coen Brothers’ movies, it really is too good of a movie not to see. It’s been around for a long time now, and most people will agree that it’s a pretty significant movie when it comes to the cinematic culture. It was the first movie to be shot digitally and altered to change the look into the sepia colored tones that it has to give it the Great Depression look. Because where they shot the movie, during that time of the year, it was so lush and green, it didn’t have the look that the Coen Brothers were going for.  

So, yeah. Go and see O’ Brother Where Art Thou. You’ll definitely be entertained. You’ll love the music. And you might even learn a thing or two about literature. Or at the very least, hair treatment… And as always, keep on watching, with a smile on your face…