In the new film Behemoth!, Pedro Pascal takes on the role of a cello maestro in a classical music drama that fails to resonate. Directed by Tony Gilroy, known for his work on the Bourne films and Andor, this movie attempts to blend the worlds of high art and personal turmoil but ultimately strikes a discordant note.
A Promising Premise with a Stellar Cast
On paper, Behemoth! seems like a surefire hit. It boasts a score from nine A-list composers collectively known as The Behemoth! Collective, a stacked cast including Tilda Swinton, Will Arnett, and Eva Victor, and a central character described as "Tár for straight men." The film follows Alex (Pascal), an inscrutable cello maestro who returns to Los Angeles after nearly two decades on the road. He navigates session work, family ties, and haunting memories of a past affair.
Where the Film Goes Wrong
Despite its pedigree, Behemoth! struggles to find its rhythm. Pascal's portrayal lacks the charisma needed to carry such a complex role. Comparisons to Cate Blanchett's tour-de-force in Tár are inevitable, and unfortunately, Pascal falls short. Gilroy's direction, while competent, fails to braid the genres as elegantly as Todd Field did in his acclaimed film.
Key Takeaways from Behemoth!
- Miscast lead: Pedro Pascal fails to bring the necessary depth and magnetism to the role of Alex.
- Uneven tone: The film oscillates between melodrama and psychological thriller without mastering either.
- Wasted talent: The supporting cast, including Tilda Swinton, is underutilized.
- Forgettable score: Despite nine composers, the music fails to leave a lasting impression.
Behemoth! vs. Similar Classical Music Dramas
To understand where Behemoth! falters, it's helpful to compare it to other films in the genre. The table below highlights key differences.
| Film | Lead Performance | Director | Rotten Tomatoes Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Behemoth! | Pedro Pascal | Tony Gilroy | 45% |
| Tár | Cate Blanchett | Todd Field | 91% |
| Whiplash | Miles Teller | Damien Chazelle | 94% |
| The Pianist | Adrien Brody | Roman Polanski | 95% |
The Verdict on Behemoth!
Behemoth! aims high but ultimately collapses under the weight of its own ambition. While it has moments of intrigue, the film never fully engages. Fans of Pedro Pascal may find some enjoyment, but those seeking a profound classical music drama should look elsewhere.
FAQ
What is Behemoth! about?
Behemoth! follows Alex, a cello maestro who returns to Los Angeles after years on the road. He grapples with family issues and memories of a past lover while navigating the classical music scene.
Who stars in Behemoth!?
The film stars Pedro Pascal, Tilda Swinton, Will Arnett, and Eva Victor, among others.
Is Behemoth! worth watching?
Critics and early viewers suggest that Behemoth! fails to deliver a compelling narrative despite its talented cast. It may not be worth watching for those seeking a standout classical music drama.