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Holly Jones's avatar

You are really knocking it out of the park with these Altman dives. I'd enthusiastically purchase and read an entire book composed of them.

Robert Walrod's avatar

Thanks so much.

Maybe one day!

Karl Straub's avatar

3 Women— tough film to write about, and you did a beautiful job. One of his least on-brand movies, but when I first saw it on criterion I really loved it. One of the weirder Hollywood films, I’d say.

Robert Walrod's avatar

Thanks so much.

As I tried to get across, it's a Robert Altman movie that really feels like a David Lynch movie.

And a good illustration of what can happen when an artist gets out of a creative comfort zone to tackle a new creative challenge. (Also, considering the circumstances, a fantastic illustration of how limited resources can spur creativity.)

Karl Straub's avatar

It’s fascinating how he gets a Lynchian vibe but also retains a lot of what you expect from Altman. And yeah, that limited resources spurring creativity idea— always fascinating when artists pull that off.

Lera Acey's avatar

This is really interesting, Robert! Thanks for including clips with your essay. The deep dive was awesome. I haven't heard of a lot of this. I only know his super famous work. Wayyyy more curious now. 🔥

Robert Walrod's avatar

Thanks so much.

There's a whole filmography to explore.

And the next installment's coming soon!

Oren Shai's avatar

Great piece! 3 Women was incredibly influential on me (one of my favorites). About a decade ago I went to a screening of it at Cinefamily in Los Angeles. Might have been my first time watching it on a big screen. The audience decided that the slow zooms were very funny and laughed every time the camera started pushing in (so like, every other shot). Drove me crazy!

Robert Walrod's avatar

That's definitely an Altman trademark.

M. Campassi's avatar

As a David Lynch fan, I'm strongly compelled to check this one out. Great analysis!

Robert Walrod's avatar

Thanks so much.

Highly recommended.

W. Michael Johnson's avatar

Thanks for focusing on these less celebrated films. I was a big fan of most of these actors (and Altman, although I didn't realize it), but I never saw or even thought much about seeing either of these two films. And now, thanks to you, I don't feel like I missed out on something important.

Robert Walrod's avatar

I'd recommend 3 Women. I think it's one of his best.