Perfection (2012) Reviews

• A bit inexpressive

  blumdeluxe2017-04-04

  First of all "Perfection" surely deals with important issues. There are several topics touched like self-reflection, abuse, the fear of getting older, that are definitely worth talking about and that definitely give this movie a raison-d'etre. It is thus maybe a harsh ranking I gave. The reason I didn't enjoy the film so much was that it somehow is hard to grasp. I found it not so easy to emphasize with the characters, even though there's absolutely no reason for it. I just missed the great fight or conflict, everything kind of went with the flow. I think that a clearer structure and focus on what's the message would have probably helped the film to get its important points across. The movie as it is tells the story of a woman finding the courage to be herself and trust others and that is beautiful - but it is a story that was told way better a lot of times. Now everyone who finds some encouragement through this movie is of course an example of how everyone reacts differently on different movies but for me personally, this one was a bit forgettable.

• Crisis at the Throne of Beauty

  pacrevelon2016-12-17

  Perfection is the most interesting indie film to come along in ages. The power of the film lies in its ability to portray really in depth character studies into the lives of LA society's misfits, has beens and losers. It focuses on the symbiotic relationship between a mother and daughter and the daughters subsequent inherited obsession with beauty. LA is a metaphor of a fantasy land and larger than life glamour worship where physical perfection can make or break you. This film exposes the deep underbelly of LA, its competitiveness and cruelty. The Art Director created sad pathetic dives for the characters to meld with. Cristina Beck is an amazing director. Her choice of Robyn Peterson was a brilliant move. Her acting was spot on. She aptly portrays the deep inner conflicts of the fading glamour of a once great beauty buckling under the pressures of LA. Her confidence level swirls in a cocktail of one part each cheerful, social adept and lovely older woman mixed with an aging starlet cringing in morose self doubt. With all good intentions of being a good mother she can't help but succumb to the pressures of society. It's almost a male menopause gone bad to see her self destruct. Kristabelle chooses off putting dowdy attire and projects a mousy personality which is so self conscious it's like she wishes to slide out of her own skin and slink into the shadows of her bedroom. Her self deprecation and physical torture exaggerates the pit of despair she has plunged herself into. Both actresses acted from a deep core of seriousness and quiet nuances. Although the daughter was the star of the movie, Robyn Peterson's strong contribution was pivotal and at times was what actually made the film. Perfection is a thought provoking film. I strongly recommend it to all film mavens. It is a subtle, yet powerful Indie masterpiece.