SONGS SHE WROTE ABOUT PEOPLE SHE KNOWS (Kris Elgstrand) Rating: NNN
This über-quirky Canadian pic about a woman who takes the advice of a music therapist too far is sometimes infuriating but often gobsmackingly good.
In order to “express herself,” Carol (Arabella Bushnell) starts sending her songs in phone messages to people who are pissing her off. A composition for her boss (Brad Dryborough) inspires him to fire her, but for her own good – he thinks she has talent – which sends both of them on a surprising journey together.
As a writer, Kris Elgstrand has a firm grasp of the artistic yearnings that drive people to do risky things. As a -director, though, he makes some unwise decisions, especially allowing Bushnell to play Carol as someone with almost no affect. Her deadpan personality’s intended to contrast with her compelling songs, but it just makes you wish for a more energized perfor-mance.
The smooth-jazz music is terrific, however, making the whole thing strangely beautiful. 80 minutes.
