This is a film that tries hard to be provocative. It attempts to hit you hard in places and to make you think. There are themes to do with breaking down the barriers between characters and the real life of people that play them and also about existence and life chances. This is all worthy and if you stay with the film it has something to offer even if that something isn't any answers.
Unfortunately, in trying to ask questions without answers and in trying to make the film unrepetitive by making it non-linear and move the story backwards and forwards between events it fails to carry the viewer. I was too busy for the first hour trying to make sure that I hadn't missed anything that I didn't settle into the film. Therefore it is not an easy watch and is not really substantial enough to be worth the effort.
However, the cast especially Tuesday Weld hold the film together well it is almost worth watching 'Play It As It Lays' for the performances.
Unfortunately, in trying to ask questions without answers and in trying to make the film unrepetitive by making it non-linear and move the story backwards and forwards between events it fails to carry the viewer. I was too busy for the first hour trying to make sure that I hadn't missed anything that I didn't settle into the film. Therefore it is not an easy watch and is not really substantial enough to be worth the effort.
However, the cast especially Tuesday Weld hold the film together well it is almost worth watching 'Play It As It Lays' for the performances.