The movie revolves around two people in a home talking, discussing, arguing, fighting, crying and looking back on their past relationship, that's it seriously. You immediately think to yourself that this would be perfect for a two person play and how did it make it to the big screen. But to seat there in your seat and watch Fred (Stanley Tucci), an attorney behave like some 16 year old and gorgeous Velvet (Alice Eve)have to speak to Fred like a child is almost insulting to your intelligence. As the conversation continues you begin to sense that their relationship is somewhere in the Fatal Attraction category. Fred speaks to Velvet like she is on the witness stand but Velvet is the adult in the room. After a while the conversation is getting old,scary and you wish the thing would just end. Not so fast, the movie ends in a very unique way that will make you take a deep breath and say "You got to be kidding me."
24 Reviews
A test of patience
nicksmoviereviews5 December 2021
The film won't be for everybody, and the twist ending might leave some perplexed. Despite this, the film is a decent dialogue-oriented drama. My only criticism is that it plays out too much like a stage play in its delivery.
A cruel trick.
thomasshahbaz10 August 2014
This film is masterfully pulled off... great acting, visuals, everything. Unfortunately, in my opinion it fits into a category of the "Irreversible" ilk, where you are made to watch something drawn-out and punishing, for the sole purpose of a "reveal" that everything is not as it seems (this film) or there is something more to it all which makes it even more punishing (this film and Irreversible). As another reviewer has said, it's not entertaining.
Sadly, the comedy of Neil LaBute's successes is lacking here, unless you consider the ending to be a joke. If it is, it's not funny.
I caught a glimpse of this cruel-for-cruelty's-sake side of LaBute when reading the short story about a murdered prostitute in his book, "Seconds of Pleasure", a story which I'd be surprised to see make it into the upcoming film version thereof.
Sadly, the comedy of Neil LaBute's successes is lacking here, unless you consider the ending to be a joke. If it is, it's not funny.
I caught a glimpse of this cruel-for-cruelty's-sake side of LaBute when reading the short story about a murdered prostitute in his book, "Seconds of Pleasure", a story which I'd be surprised to see make it into the upcoming film version thereof.
The battle of the sexes, terse, modern, and unresolved.
JohnDeSando29 December 2013
"Some velvet mornin' when I'm straight I'm gonna open up your gate And maybe tell you 'bout Phaedra And how she gave me life And how she made it end." Lee Hazlewood.
Writer/director Neil LaBute acknowledges Swedish playwright August Strindberg after the credits of Some Velvet Morning. And well he should, for his Some Velvet Morning has naturalism with touches of Ibsen in an entertaining two hander that barely covers the violent potential of its male, Fred (Stanley Tucci) and female (Alice Eve). The film is contemporary-dialogue driven, and that works swell for me, a word guy.
Lee Hazelwood's lyrics, above, sung by Hazelwood and Nancy Sinatra in the '70's, suggest that the mythical Phaedra, whom Hippolytus spurned, holds questions to be unanswered about the ballet between the sexes. LaBute's modern romance, albeit she is a prostitute, suggests few answers for lovers are yet to be found even over thousands of years.
As in Strindberg's Miss Julia, the sexual play is masked by a restraint that is in check only part way through the film. Fred returns to Velvet after four years expecting her to drop everything for him. The dialogue dance grows intense as it's clear she does not want to resume the relationship. She repeats, "You need to leave, before I get..." as he demands she finish the thought. Hers is largely a reactive role that harks back to times when women were barely heard or seen.
Although the intense sexual battle in the film might lead to violence, as it did in the Phaedra legend, restraint holds sway, just as you might expect from attorney Fred and classy call girl Velvet. The verbal violence does not have the high class intonations of, say, Tracey Letts' August: Osage County or the middle class rudeness of Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf; it does deftly display the hidden horror of relationships gone bad. LaBute lets his actors suggest the bad blood between former lovers and by extension the dangers of any male-female contests.
I hope the film's success does not rest on the surprise ending, which may trivialize an eternal contest between males and females. The hooker- with-a heart of gold motif doesn't apply. This Adam and Eve are in charge of their fates, and it's not pretty.
Writer/director Neil LaBute acknowledges Swedish playwright August Strindberg after the credits of Some Velvet Morning. And well he should, for his Some Velvet Morning has naturalism with touches of Ibsen in an entertaining two hander that barely covers the violent potential of its male, Fred (Stanley Tucci) and female (Alice Eve). The film is contemporary-dialogue driven, and that works swell for me, a word guy.
Lee Hazelwood's lyrics, above, sung by Hazelwood and Nancy Sinatra in the '70's, suggest that the mythical Phaedra, whom Hippolytus spurned, holds questions to be unanswered about the ballet between the sexes. LaBute's modern romance, albeit she is a prostitute, suggests few answers for lovers are yet to be found even over thousands of years.
As in Strindberg's Miss Julia, the sexual play is masked by a restraint that is in check only part way through the film. Fred returns to Velvet after four years expecting her to drop everything for him. The dialogue dance grows intense as it's clear she does not want to resume the relationship. She repeats, "You need to leave, before I get..." as he demands she finish the thought. Hers is largely a reactive role that harks back to times when women were barely heard or seen.
Although the intense sexual battle in the film might lead to violence, as it did in the Phaedra legend, restraint holds sway, just as you might expect from attorney Fred and classy call girl Velvet. The verbal violence does not have the high class intonations of, say, Tracey Letts' August: Osage County or the middle class rudeness of Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf; it does deftly display the hidden horror of relationships gone bad. LaBute lets his actors suggest the bad blood between former lovers and by extension the dangers of any male-female contests.
I hope the film's success does not rest on the surprise ending, which may trivialize an eternal contest between males and females. The hooker- with-a heart of gold motif doesn't apply. This Adam and Eve are in charge of their fates, and it's not pretty.
Two-Hander Depicting the Basic Cruelty of Human Beings
l_rawjalaurence19 November 2015
Neil LaBute's work has always been raw in tone, frequently offensive, yet never lacking in punch.
SOME VELVET MORNING proves no exception to this rule. Set in a split-level apartment in a big city, is concerns an apparently unstable relationship between middle-aged lawyer Fred (Stanley Tucci), and his twentysomething former mistress Velvet (Alice Eve). Fred claims to have left his wife and returned to Velvet after a four-year absence, while Velvet apparently resents his unexpected appearance in her apartment.
Most of the film's eighty-two minute running-time is devoted to a roller-coaster depiction of the characters' relationship as it veers from protestations of love, false demonstrations of passion, and the more obvious depicting of male power based on strength. In the final reel there is an unexpected denouement that calls into question the entire basis on which the plot has been constructed. Some might consider it artificial; others a too-obvious elaboration of the film's basic theme.
In terms of style, SOME VELVET MORNING has much of the rawness of David Mamet's OLEANNA (1994), another two-hander based on the clash between a man and woman of varying ages, combined with the destructive potential of Mike Nichols's WHO'S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOOLF (1966), wherein the main characters tear emotional lumps out of each other in pursuit of emotional as well as physical mastery.
As director, LaBute refuses to let his characters out of sight of his penetrating camera. We feel uncomfortably close to them, especially Fred as he tries to ingratiate himself once again into Velvet's emotions. Yet there is a sense in which the film glorifies as well as condemns male power; Tucci portrays Fred as the initiator of most of the conversations he conducts with Velvet. Until he achieves his desired aim, he will never give up.
In truth the plot begins to pall as it unfolds, as we wonder why Fred is so insistent on achieving his desired aim. Is it part of his own feeling of insecurity; that he is an emotional wreck with a pathological inability to articulate his emotions? As Velvet, Eve tends to be too much of a foil to him; in Beckettian fashion she tells us she is going out but never actually takes any positive action.
It might be said that SOME VELVET MORNING gives an uncompromising portrait of modern relationships. In truth it actually reveals the bile at the heart of the writer/ director's consciousness, which manifests itself in a consciously sexist piece of work.
SOME VELVET MORNING proves no exception to this rule. Set in a split-level apartment in a big city, is concerns an apparently unstable relationship between middle-aged lawyer Fred (Stanley Tucci), and his twentysomething former mistress Velvet (Alice Eve). Fred claims to have left his wife and returned to Velvet after a four-year absence, while Velvet apparently resents his unexpected appearance in her apartment.
Most of the film's eighty-two minute running-time is devoted to a roller-coaster depiction of the characters' relationship as it veers from protestations of love, false demonstrations of passion, and the more obvious depicting of male power based on strength. In the final reel there is an unexpected denouement that calls into question the entire basis on which the plot has been constructed. Some might consider it artificial; others a too-obvious elaboration of the film's basic theme.
In terms of style, SOME VELVET MORNING has much of the rawness of David Mamet's OLEANNA (1994), another two-hander based on the clash between a man and woman of varying ages, combined with the destructive potential of Mike Nichols's WHO'S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOOLF (1966), wherein the main characters tear emotional lumps out of each other in pursuit of emotional as well as physical mastery.
As director, LaBute refuses to let his characters out of sight of his penetrating camera. We feel uncomfortably close to them, especially Fred as he tries to ingratiate himself once again into Velvet's emotions. Yet there is a sense in which the film glorifies as well as condemns male power; Tucci portrays Fred as the initiator of most of the conversations he conducts with Velvet. Until he achieves his desired aim, he will never give up.
In truth the plot begins to pall as it unfolds, as we wonder why Fred is so insistent on achieving his desired aim. Is it part of his own feeling of insecurity; that he is an emotional wreck with a pathological inability to articulate his emotions? As Velvet, Eve tends to be too much of a foil to him; in Beckettian fashion she tells us she is going out but never actually takes any positive action.
It might be said that SOME VELVET MORNING gives an uncompromising portrait of modern relationships. In truth it actually reveals the bile at the heart of the writer/ director's consciousness, which manifests itself in a consciously sexist piece of work.
Crawling on broken glass
sebastian-lim22 May 2014
Watching this felt as though I was crawling on broken glass... simply because the dialogues in this film is very anguish, and bitter. Constant argument from the start with no sense of direction where the film is going. The whole film is shot inside the house... no dramatic background music or anything else. Dull.
It's like watching an argument, going on and on, and on... not only does it not have direction, nor plot, but it gives the viewer a sense of directionless-ness feeling and drowsiness attempting to figure out what's the film about.
Alice Eve is very static and is not able to express her emotions at all. It's as though she's got her pokerface on!
Good lines in the dialogues. I'll give it that.
It's like watching an argument, going on and on, and on... not only does it not have direction, nor plot, but it gives the viewer a sense of directionless-ness feeling and drowsiness attempting to figure out what's the film about.
Alice Eve is very static and is not able to express her emotions at all. It's as though she's got her pokerface on!
Good lines in the dialogues. I'll give it that.
Surprisingly Enjoyable! 6/10
leonblackwood20 September 2014
Review: What a strange but we'll made movie which is based around a conversation between 2 people, about there relationship. The only reason why I gave this movie a chance was because of Stanley Tucci, who usually makes good movies, and after seeing this film, I'm glad that I put it on my rental list. Right from the beginning I didn't have a clue were the movie was going or were it was going to end up. The twist near the end was brilliant and the chemistry between the two characters was believable and emotional in parts. It made me laugh how Stanley Tucci just wouldn't leave the girls house and how he kept picking at everything that was said. I'm sure that there are many couples that can relate to this situation which is why it makes it so realistic and I've got to take my hat off to the actors who done extremely well with such a small project. Anyway, i enjoyed this small budget movie which kept me extremely entertained throughout. Enjoyable!
Round-Up: It's such a shame that small budget movies like this, get overlooked! Anyway, you might recognise Alice Eve from Star Trek Into Darkness and Men In Black 3 but she isn't a household name. She put in a great performance in her role and she held her own next to Stanley Tucci who has starred in many top movies. Tucci was great in a Devil Wears Prada and he's starred in many big budget movies like Transformers and the Hunger Games franchise. Together, they were brilliant in this film but because of its small distribution and terrible worldwide gross, it didn't get the recognition that it deserved.
Budget: N/A Worldwide Gross: $6,000 (Terrible!)
I recommend this movie to people who are into there deep dramas about a man who turns up unannounced, on his ex-lovers doorstep expecting to rekindle there relationship. 6/10
Round-Up: It's such a shame that small budget movies like this, get overlooked! Anyway, you might recognise Alice Eve from Star Trek Into Darkness and Men In Black 3 but she isn't a household name. She put in a great performance in her role and she held her own next to Stanley Tucci who has starred in many top movies. Tucci was great in a Devil Wears Prada and he's starred in many big budget movies like Transformers and the Hunger Games franchise. Together, they were brilliant in this film but because of its small distribution and terrible worldwide gross, it didn't get the recognition that it deserved.
Budget: N/A Worldwide Gross: $6,000 (Terrible!)
I recommend this movie to people who are into there deep dramas about a man who turns up unannounced, on his ex-lovers doorstep expecting to rekindle there relationship. 6/10
Would rather be water-boarded then watch this movie.
kutty_shyam9 August 2014
I saw my dog take a dump once, but it never crossed my mind to nominate him for the best producer Oscar, nor Would I nominate Neil Labute as a writer and director for Some Velvet Morning. In fact, if he made popcorn for the movie it would suck. I felt really sad watching Stanley Tucci and Alice Eve pass this move through their acting gut, much like I would pass a Taco Bell burrito gut ball through mine.
Really I was so irritated and then the hapless twist at the end; I think we were supposed to yell bravo, instead of looking to get even with a shotgun, a box of lead shot and my favorite hunting dog. The only person I hate more then Neil Labute is Justin Bieber and then its a long drop to Hitler.
Can't we invoke the Old Yeller statute, in a case like this. I know Labute likes to challenge his audience, but so does eating bad chicken. Here is an idea, make something that I might find entertaining. Actually I am entertained by people falling off their skateboard on Youtube how hard is that. Seriously.
Really I was so irritated and then the hapless twist at the end; I think we were supposed to yell bravo, instead of looking to get even with a shotgun, a box of lead shot and my favorite hunting dog. The only person I hate more then Neil Labute is Justin Bieber and then its a long drop to Hitler.
Can't we invoke the Old Yeller statute, in a case like this. I know Labute likes to challenge his audience, but so does eating bad chicken. Here is an idea, make something that I might find entertaining. Actually I am entertained by people falling off their skateboard on Youtube how hard is that. Seriously.
It's as dark as it is Impressive.
merqabah9 July 2014
Lets get this out of the way, its not a very entertaining movie, after all it contains only one location, 2 actors and it draws more from La butte's theater background than film language, this is also an oddity as it is a straight drama(occasional joke aside) unlike Labutte's dark comedies of the past; that said, solid and disturbing dialog, a surprising ending and a powerhouse performance by Stanley Tucci raise this as one of the most interesting films to come out in a while.
As said in the summaries, the movie pits a bitter and unstable character played by Stanley Tucci against a woman played by Alice Eve, who seems to hold secrets in both her own life as well as the shared common past between the both of them, and as their conversation prolongs, secrets, bile and nastiness are spread all over the clinical white townhouse.
Stanley Tucci, as said previously, steals every scene he is in, while Alice eve plays it more subdued, but then again, her character doesn't have as many grand moments, and she does a magnificent job, especially towards the end of the film.
The cinematography and set design fit the movie perfectly, contrasting the neat empty house with the fiery discussion that takes place in it, and while I'm sure it was a deliberate decision, the hand-held camera seems to be operated by someone with Parkinsons disease, there are scenes where it seems to shake and bob all over the place, becoming a bit distracting.
The movie may be off putting to many, first of all because the dialog is an exercise in spitefulness and cruelty, which many people will find hard to stomach, secondly at first glance there appears to be a randomness in the plot, which is to be expected as this is a dialog driven film, however this lack of entertainment may drive away some, finally there's THAT ending, some may feel cheated, some will think its one clever piece of cookie, and to say anything about it here would spoil the film in its entirety, Finally, i guarantee you, that if you make it past all the prejudices that could arise from watching something like this, you will find a very original, brilliant and haunting piece of cinema.
As said in the summaries, the movie pits a bitter and unstable character played by Stanley Tucci against a woman played by Alice Eve, who seems to hold secrets in both her own life as well as the shared common past between the both of them, and as their conversation prolongs, secrets, bile and nastiness are spread all over the clinical white townhouse.
Stanley Tucci, as said previously, steals every scene he is in, while Alice eve plays it more subdued, but then again, her character doesn't have as many grand moments, and she does a magnificent job, especially towards the end of the film.
The cinematography and set design fit the movie perfectly, contrasting the neat empty house with the fiery discussion that takes place in it, and while I'm sure it was a deliberate decision, the hand-held camera seems to be operated by someone with Parkinsons disease, there are scenes where it seems to shake and bob all over the place, becoming a bit distracting.
The movie may be off putting to many, first of all because the dialog is an exercise in spitefulness and cruelty, which many people will find hard to stomach, secondly at first glance there appears to be a randomness in the plot, which is to be expected as this is a dialog driven film, however this lack of entertainment may drive away some, finally there's THAT ending, some may feel cheated, some will think its one clever piece of cookie, and to say anything about it here would spoil the film in its entirety, Finally, i guarantee you, that if you make it past all the prejudices that could arise from watching something like this, you will find a very original, brilliant and haunting piece of cinema.
A good character study
ellic11 June 2020
A 2 person, 1 act, dialogue play.
Stanley Tucci is excellent as usual I was not familiar with Alice Eve but she too was excellent.
An attorney leaves his wife and shows up his former lover's place after no contact for 4 years. 'Nuff said about the plot.
The writing was OK but could have been better.
The camera work was perhaps the most interesting part. They used excellent control of perspective to control and help define the scenes. Depending who controlled the scene the perspective showed that individual to be the bigger person. Eve is 5'5", Tucci is 5'8" but as scenes shifted she would appear to dwarf him when she controlled the scene, as power shifted to him it would reverse, or shift to equal footing. At times it appeared to be done to show Tucci's character's pettiness. Excellent camera work!!!!
With better writing I would have given this a 9.
Stanley Tucci is excellent as usual I was not familiar with Alice Eve but she too was excellent.
An attorney leaves his wife and shows up his former lover's place after no contact for 4 years. 'Nuff said about the plot.
The writing was OK but could have been better.
The camera work was perhaps the most interesting part. They used excellent control of perspective to control and help define the scenes. Depending who controlled the scene the perspective showed that individual to be the bigger person. Eve is 5'5", Tucci is 5'8" but as scenes shifted she would appear to dwarf him when she controlled the scene, as power shifted to him it would reverse, or shift to equal footing. At times it appeared to be done to show Tucci's character's pettiness. Excellent camera work!!!!
With better writing I would have given this a 9.
Just do not waste your time
canberkozsu16 August 2018
Outstanding theatrical performance
mheifets-6053821 March 2016
Watched this on the plane, could not get my eyes off it. Masterful theatrical performance , 2 people inside a townhouse somewhere in U.S. Big city. Plot reviewed by others. Camera action captures a plethora of emotions and takes you where the actors want you to go. You will love this if you like watching uncoiling emotions from interactions of both characters, if you don't mind the sexual setting (no nudity) but nevertheless it very sexually charged, and if you like small cast theatrical performances. The ending is indeed unexpected, but in a way may the best way to end this escalating very emotionally charged movie. Both actors make it very believable at every moment. Their dialog may leave you irritated at times, but it is very realistic.
Good
manitobaman8130 August 2014
This was so-so, one of those films that could have been a lot better had the editing been tighter. Stanley Tucci stars as a man who surprises his former mistress (Alice Eve), claiming to have left his wife. Before too long, a dark history between the two has come into focus. And if you believe that, I have a bridge in Brooklyn to sell you! If you enjoyed the old Austrian movies about adultery, you'll probably like this one. You've got to be a die-hard fan to embrace this one. What makes it interesting is that all the characters struggle against a system that has perpetuated many falsehoods. Final rating: 7/10.
Don't tell your friends the ending!
cekadah26 December 2016
Warning: Spoilers
Tell them to skip this flick altogether!
The give away that this movie is a set-up for the viewer is throughout the entire story. Velvet is constantly saying she must leave to meet a friend. But she never leaves the house! Plus she has every reason to leave because her relationship and conversation with Fred is 'rocky' at best. Fred is a most unpleasant fellow! But she stays to continue the conversation that she is clearly disturbed by. Something is surely afoot!
I had never heard of this flick and because Stanley Tucci is a name in the actor world I decided to watch. Not such a good idea. The story drags on and on and you keep wondering why doesn't she just leave? By movies end you are ready to smack yourself for sticking with it! It's a trick! Hint, Hint!
The give away that this movie is a set-up for the viewer is throughout the entire story. Velvet is constantly saying she must leave to meet a friend. But she never leaves the house! Plus she has every reason to leave because her relationship and conversation with Fred is 'rocky' at best. Fred is a most unpleasant fellow! But she stays to continue the conversation that she is clearly disturbed by. Something is surely afoot!
I had never heard of this flick and because Stanley Tucci is a name in the actor world I decided to watch. Not such a good idea. The story drags on and on and you keep wondering why doesn't she just leave? By movies end you are ready to smack yourself for sticking with it! It's a trick! Hint, Hint!
Perfect acting!
AliceEverlasting30 May 2019
Some movies are left to be unseen by everyone because of the too complicated conversations and the slow development of the story. But if you are connoisseur you will like the movie.I found it powerful, disturbing, intriguing and thought-provoking. I understand the criticisms, but disagree with them. I've already recommended it to friends - with the caveat that it is not for everyone. Best to be watched alone. Don't make the mistake I did and watch it on a date :)
A locked room drama boiling to the end
Cynical-SJ4 February 2024
Honestly, this film as an locked room drama was a bit not what I wanted and it was just a bit one note, but Stanley tucci is great with the performance as a gilted lover who is on the funny side, but has an undertone of violence that keeps boiling over at times. So, it might be a bit hard for the audience to watch over the drama unfolding and the information being drip feeding the information about the characters to the audience to keep interest and it might get boring after a while, and there isn't much variety in the shot composition or the acting performances to add to it, which reminds me of "Sanctuary" where the both leads in similar circumstances eats the scene up which is complimented by the directors camera choices.
... finest performance to date
bjarias10 June 2014
... he's been there, done that time and again.. she is undoubtedly the wonderful surprise in this film. Beautiful and talented.. a very winning combination. It's not a movie that's going to get much mainstream recognition, but there's no doubt, she was absolutely phenomenal, exhibiting just how good an actor she truly is. A fan previously, but she's now amped it up to a new level of commitment. The storyline is as unrealistic as it can get, but you're not clued in until the final moments of the film. It's also a film that will benefit from repeated viewings.. what you might have missed the first time round will impress in added screenings.
Very Pleasantly Surprised with a Unique Independent Film
matthew-messina3 May 2014
I found this movie on Amazon, and it sounded pretty interesting, and when I saw a short running time, it made me curious.
In my experience, independent movies are either far too long, or the perfect length. Likewise, they vary from pitiful, instantly forgettable, or phenomenal, like most films I guess, however independent movies are even more difficult to analyze as there is little in between. At less than an hour and a half, I knew I wouldn't have that problem. What I watched surprised me even more and was extremely impressive.
Only two characters throughout the entire film, in one location. This is an extremely difficult task for any filmmaker, but as opposed to others with similar types of settings, this took place in real-time, even more difficult.
Alice Eve delivers another brilliant performance, who I hope will get some more starring mainstream roles soon. I loved her in She's Out of My League, and she has done a string of indies, all of which she was impressive. This film will certainly help her career.
Stanley Tucci was, for lack of a better word, Stanley Tucci. Always spot on, and will always add extra depth to whatever character he is playing.
What I loved about this film was the on-going back-and-forth between the two. There is a deep history between the characters, with anger growing between both, and a history of problems. What made this so interesting, is that it is never actually stated what the issues are, but the viewer completely understands the complexities of both characters.
I was riveted to see what was going to happen with the facts given, and those not given explicitly. The ending is perfectly executed. I thought I guessed the surprise ending, and I was right...right up until the second shocker came and my mouth was dropped wide open.
This film will stick with you. It is a great watch, and a short film, which makes it all the more satisfying. I hope this can get some more play and some buzz about it. It is certainly deserving.
In my experience, independent movies are either far too long, or the perfect length. Likewise, they vary from pitiful, instantly forgettable, or phenomenal, like most films I guess, however independent movies are even more difficult to analyze as there is little in between. At less than an hour and a half, I knew I wouldn't have that problem. What I watched surprised me even more and was extremely impressive.
Only two characters throughout the entire film, in one location. This is an extremely difficult task for any filmmaker, but as opposed to others with similar types of settings, this took place in real-time, even more difficult.
Alice Eve delivers another brilliant performance, who I hope will get some more starring mainstream roles soon. I loved her in She's Out of My League, and she has done a string of indies, all of which she was impressive. This film will certainly help her career.
Stanley Tucci was, for lack of a better word, Stanley Tucci. Always spot on, and will always add extra depth to whatever character he is playing.
What I loved about this film was the on-going back-and-forth between the two. There is a deep history between the characters, with anger growing between both, and a history of problems. What made this so interesting, is that it is never actually stated what the issues are, but the viewer completely understands the complexities of both characters.
I was riveted to see what was going to happen with the facts given, and those not given explicitly. The ending is perfectly executed. I thought I guessed the surprise ending, and I was right...right up until the second shocker came and my mouth was dropped wide open.
This film will stick with you. It is a great watch, and a short film, which makes it all the more satisfying. I hope this can get some more play and some buzz about it. It is certainly deserving.
Some (Anything But) Velvet Morning...
afallguns9 August 2015
Warning: Spoilers
Well... I mean, F*CK! And I'm just talking about the plot twist! I'm still pretty much speechless about it...
About the acting... Both Alice Eve and Stanley Tucci were pretty intense in their role... Alice was... Alice... I mean the Alice interviewed in a Talk Show... She was totally believable, lovely and authentic... Stanley Tucci felt like his stressed out version! Non less authentic, I have to say! His character is not very likable, but Stanley is sympathetic, so of course at some point you cheer for him... The characters suit perfectly the actors, as if the parts were written for the actors...
At first, I thought that the movie would be a little, or maybe a lot, more comic... Not much of the heavy drama it is... I probably thought that 'cause both actors would pull-off the comedic characters easily... But they were great in this dark piece of art... Some Velvet Morning was my first of Neil LaBute's movies... And won't be the last! This movie is very well made, surprising, not as fun as the trailer makes it looks like... The lack of a score can be felt... Maybe the absence means to make the movie a little claustrophobic... I think that Some Velvet Morning is really underrated... It worth a couple prizes...
Call me for a discussion of the plot twist... Specially if it made you feel cheated, angry or confused! Will I answer your questions? Probably not... But this movie deserve to be more discussed!
About the acting... Both Alice Eve and Stanley Tucci were pretty intense in their role... Alice was... Alice... I mean the Alice interviewed in a Talk Show... She was totally believable, lovely and authentic... Stanley Tucci felt like his stressed out version! Non less authentic, I have to say! His character is not very likable, but Stanley is sympathetic, so of course at some point you cheer for him... The characters suit perfectly the actors, as if the parts were written for the actors...
At first, I thought that the movie would be a little, or maybe a lot, more comic... Not much of the heavy drama it is... I probably thought that 'cause both actors would pull-off the comedic characters easily... But they were great in this dark piece of art... Some Velvet Morning was my first of Neil LaBute's movies... And won't be the last! This movie is very well made, surprising, not as fun as the trailer makes it looks like... The lack of a score can be felt... Maybe the absence means to make the movie a little claustrophobic... I think that Some Velvet Morning is really underrated... It worth a couple prizes...
Call me for a discussion of the plot twist... Specially if it made you feel cheated, angry or confused! Will I answer your questions? Probably not... But this movie deserve to be more discussed!
Some Velvet Morning: Intense and Captivating
pampowell54 December 2013
Warning: Spoilers
This cutting edge and sometimes controversial director/writer Neil LaBute has stayed true to form with his intermittently cruel and quite realistic new film "Some Velvet Morning." The realistic conversation with the cynical and chauvinistic male lead and the submissive female is almost reminiscent of a David Mamet play in style. It was not always pretty or comfortable to watch, but this seems to be LaBute's signature.
Fred (Tucci) arrived unexpectedly at the home of his former lover/prostitute, Velvet, after a 4 year hiatus. It appeared that Fred had the notion of moving back into Velvet's home. The two had a sordid past as they struggled to find a place of comfort within their relationship. Can a love once gone wrong be turned around?
From the moment Tucci's character, Fred, is on the scene, tension and apprehension are in the air. Fred, with suitcases in hand, waits impatiently at the door of his former lover/hired prostitute. As Velvet opens the door, more than the look of surprise crosses her face. Is it fear? Trepidation? Excitement? Fred is then reluctantly let in with Velvet expressing her desire to leave for an appointment soon. The two move from room to room, as Fred shares more from his life and what has happened in the last four years. The push and pull these two have on each other is from a very unhealthy past relationship.
It was difficult and stressful to watch this rather fast-paced and rigorous verbal workout. The intensity with each and every scene was continually amplified until I truly wanted to leave. But I didn't and I'm so glad that I didn't!
This 2-person film could have been a play on a stage. The film took place in a few different rooms of a beautiful townhouse in NYC. The entire film was a conversation between Tucci and Eve's characters. It felt as if you were following them from room to room and sitting in a corner chair as the scene unfolded before you. Stanley Tucci showed that he can be quite brilliant as the egotistical, control freak who forces his views and opinions onto those around him. He also seemed like a lost soul at one moment and then an uncaring bastard in the next. Alice Eve was equally extraordinary. She pulled you into her character and situation. Even though you couldn't relate to her chosen profession, you still cared about her. You identified with her as a female. She, too, was simply brilliant in her role.
"Some Velvet Morning" was about an unbalanced relationship that tipped way too far in one direction. It took a harsh look at one of the oldest professions in the world: prostitution. No matter if it's a street corner or a penthouse apartment, it's still prostitution. It was also a relentless examination into how women value themselves and allow others to dictate their worth. This movie kept me glued to the screen, but it also made me incensed. The emotional roller coaster ride was almost more than this merry-go-round rider could handle. But with every roller coaster ride, it does eventually end (but you better hold on tight)!
Fred (Tucci) arrived unexpectedly at the home of his former lover/prostitute, Velvet, after a 4 year hiatus. It appeared that Fred had the notion of moving back into Velvet's home. The two had a sordid past as they struggled to find a place of comfort within their relationship. Can a love once gone wrong be turned around?
From the moment Tucci's character, Fred, is on the scene, tension and apprehension are in the air. Fred, with suitcases in hand, waits impatiently at the door of his former lover/hired prostitute. As Velvet opens the door, more than the look of surprise crosses her face. Is it fear? Trepidation? Excitement? Fred is then reluctantly let in with Velvet expressing her desire to leave for an appointment soon. The two move from room to room, as Fred shares more from his life and what has happened in the last four years. The push and pull these two have on each other is from a very unhealthy past relationship.
It was difficult and stressful to watch this rather fast-paced and rigorous verbal workout. The intensity with each and every scene was continually amplified until I truly wanted to leave. But I didn't and I'm so glad that I didn't!
This 2-person film could have been a play on a stage. The film took place in a few different rooms of a beautiful townhouse in NYC. The entire film was a conversation between Tucci and Eve's characters. It felt as if you were following them from room to room and sitting in a corner chair as the scene unfolded before you. Stanley Tucci showed that he can be quite brilliant as the egotistical, control freak who forces his views and opinions onto those around him. He also seemed like a lost soul at one moment and then an uncaring bastard in the next. Alice Eve was equally extraordinary. She pulled you into her character and situation. Even though you couldn't relate to her chosen profession, you still cared about her. You identified with her as a female. She, too, was simply brilliant in her role.
"Some Velvet Morning" was about an unbalanced relationship that tipped way too far in one direction. It took a harsh look at one of the oldest professions in the world: prostitution. No matter if it's a street corner or a penthouse apartment, it's still prostitution. It was also a relentless examination into how women value themselves and allow others to dictate their worth. This movie kept me glued to the screen, but it also made me incensed. The emotional roller coaster ride was almost more than this merry-go-round rider could handle. But with every roller coaster ride, it does eventually end (but you better hold on tight)!
Review: 'Some Velvet Morning', Starring Stanley Tucci and Alice Eve
mae-abdulbaki12 November 2013
Warning: Spoilers
Neil LaBute is originally a playwright, and his newest film Some Velvet Morning can certainly pass as a staged play, because it's set up in a way that screams theater, yet is somehow more intriguing in movie format because the camera chooses not to show you everything, which is vital for this screenplay. LaBute is especially known for his twist endings, and this film doesn't escape this at all.
After four years apart, Fred (Stanley Tucci) comes knocking on his former mistress's door with all his belongings stuffed into suitcases, claiming that he has finally left his wife. Velvet (Alice Eve) claims she is happy to see him, but is surprised that he's come back after so long fully intending to pick up where they left off; and by the looks of his suitcases, move in.
The film is set in a New York home, and once Fred arrives at the doorstep and closes the door, the audience is trapped in the house and bound to watch the events unfold. Fred and Velvet try to work through some of the issues which plagued their relationship the first time around.
The fact that Velvet prepares to go on a lunch date with Fred's son Chris further complicates matters. As the story unfolds, we find out how verbally abusive and controlling their relationship really is, Fred seeming to hold all the cards in his hand and Velvet adhering to his words even as she pushes back verbally and emotionally.
Stanley Tucci is a man of many talents, an actor who diversifies his roles and is practically everywhere. This film shows off a great performance from him. Tucci's character seems cool and collected, but simmers with physical rage underneath a verbally abusive demeanor. One second, you think you could give this guy a chance, the next he's an asshole. Tucci plays the kind of guy who can explode at any moment, never knowing what might set him off.
Alice Eve plays Velvet with an undercurrent of fear towards Tucci's Fred, but she's also boiling with repressed anger, though much quieter and reserved. And when she bursts out with her explanation about why she broke it off with Fred, you begin to see through what she does and their almost uncomfortable and verbally controlling and manipulative relationship. Eve isn't as well known as Tucci yet, her biggest role to date being in Star Trek Into Darkness, but she proves here that she can help carry a movie and do it with grace.
LaBute is a master at bringing us one story and then turning it around and pulling the rug out from under us. Anything said further about the matter would qualify as a spoiler and ruin the layout of the entire film.
The movie is set up like a play, but uses certain camera angles and shots to its advantage. At first, it's not clear where the film is going. The conversations between the characters build on each other and become more layered and interesting as the film goes on.
Some Velvet Morning is the type of film you'll see and immediately want to discuss afterwards. It throws out several implications about the two characters that will have your head spinning by the end. Everything that is said and done is called into question by the time the credits roll and you may be trying to process it all days later. The script is smart and controlled as the setting never changes and the focus is only on the two characters and their tumultuous relationship. LaBute brings us a film that plays head games with the audience with every word spoken. Highly intriguing and verbally thrilling.
After four years apart, Fred (Stanley Tucci) comes knocking on his former mistress's door with all his belongings stuffed into suitcases, claiming that he has finally left his wife. Velvet (Alice Eve) claims she is happy to see him, but is surprised that he's come back after so long fully intending to pick up where they left off; and by the looks of his suitcases, move in.
The film is set in a New York home, and once Fred arrives at the doorstep and closes the door, the audience is trapped in the house and bound to watch the events unfold. Fred and Velvet try to work through some of the issues which plagued their relationship the first time around.
The fact that Velvet prepares to go on a lunch date with Fred's son Chris further complicates matters. As the story unfolds, we find out how verbally abusive and controlling their relationship really is, Fred seeming to hold all the cards in his hand and Velvet adhering to his words even as she pushes back verbally and emotionally.
Stanley Tucci is a man of many talents, an actor who diversifies his roles and is practically everywhere. This film shows off a great performance from him. Tucci's character seems cool and collected, but simmers with physical rage underneath a verbally abusive demeanor. One second, you think you could give this guy a chance, the next he's an asshole. Tucci plays the kind of guy who can explode at any moment, never knowing what might set him off.
Alice Eve plays Velvet with an undercurrent of fear towards Tucci's Fred, but she's also boiling with repressed anger, though much quieter and reserved. And when she bursts out with her explanation about why she broke it off with Fred, you begin to see through what she does and their almost uncomfortable and verbally controlling and manipulative relationship. Eve isn't as well known as Tucci yet, her biggest role to date being in Star Trek Into Darkness, but she proves here that she can help carry a movie and do it with grace.
LaBute is a master at bringing us one story and then turning it around and pulling the rug out from under us. Anything said further about the matter would qualify as a spoiler and ruin the layout of the entire film.
The movie is set up like a play, but uses certain camera angles and shots to its advantage. At first, it's not clear where the film is going. The conversations between the characters build on each other and become more layered and interesting as the film goes on.
Some Velvet Morning is the type of film you'll see and immediately want to discuss afterwards. It throws out several implications about the two characters that will have your head spinning by the end. Everything that is said and done is called into question by the time the credits roll and you may be trying to process it all days later. The script is smart and controlled as the setting never changes and the focus is only on the two characters and their tumultuous relationship. LaBute brings us a film that plays head games with the audience with every word spoken. Highly intriguing and verbally thrilling.
One Of The Best Dialog Oreinted Film Ever Made
FilmMan4729 May 2014
Warning: Spoilers
This is it i was expecting some soft core stuff because the name Stanley Tucci is involved i thought it would be another sex & other man type of film but this is was different & amazing to put it simply this is one of the best dialog oriented film ever made there is a serious twist in the end that i wont reveal it made me opened my mouth exclaiming what just happened the writer director Neil Labute did a fantastic job by putting so much detail in characters & dialogs that kept me on the edge of my seat the best thing about this project that its unpredictability even at the climax.
The Plot:Fred just comes to meet velvet his ex mistress he tells her that he left his wife & just came to see her velvet is surprised but when Fred starts to bring up the past back velvet does not appreciate it a bit.
The Cast:first of all for Stanly Tucci this man is clearly underrated and its a shame no one gives him credit he was going on Al Pacino type level here & Alice Eve never looked so beautiful here she gave her best performance with all the emotions needed, these two are the only fine actors of our times present throughout the film here no one else.
The amount of balance the team created is Unsurpassable all i can say is that it is not a easy job to make a film it shows here why because the conversation between the characters are gripping there are films like this if anyone remembers Chinese coffee by AL Pacino and Adult World of Emma Roberts then you know what i am saying the runtime is little extended and not everyone will like this because of slow pace there is no action its just two people talking about sex,relationships,problems etc i enjoyed every second of it also i will look forward to more stuff from this director.
Overall Some Velvet Morning 2013 has now become my favorite film its quite rare gem of a film a must see my rating is 10/10:Highly Recommended.
The Plot:Fred just comes to meet velvet his ex mistress he tells her that he left his wife & just came to see her velvet is surprised but when Fred starts to bring up the past back velvet does not appreciate it a bit.
The Cast:first of all for Stanly Tucci this man is clearly underrated and its a shame no one gives him credit he was going on Al Pacino type level here & Alice Eve never looked so beautiful here she gave her best performance with all the emotions needed, these two are the only fine actors of our times present throughout the film here no one else.
The amount of balance the team created is Unsurpassable all i can say is that it is not a easy job to make a film it shows here why because the conversation between the characters are gripping there are films like this if anyone remembers Chinese coffee by AL Pacino and Adult World of Emma Roberts then you know what i am saying the runtime is little extended and not everyone will like this because of slow pace there is no action its just two people talking about sex,relationships,problems etc i enjoyed every second of it also i will look forward to more stuff from this director.
Overall Some Velvet Morning 2013 has now become my favorite film its quite rare gem of a film a must see my rating is 10/10:Highly Recommended.
A man and a woman have a long drawn out conversation which becomes more and more infuriating for both you and the participants as it drags on.
Amari-Sali18 July 2014
Warning: Spoilers
Trigger Warning(s): Rape scene
With no knowledge of who Alice Eve is, what drew me to this was Stanley Tucci. The man who can be found in so many of your favorite films, almost always with a different personality in each one. But while I must admit his involvement was certainly a draw, perhaps the real big interest for me came from the fact there were solely two people in the cast. Leading to the question: Do these two actors keep your attention over the course of the movie?
Characters & Story
Fred (Stanley Tucci) is a man who has seemingly left it all. He has left his wife of 20+ years and decides to show up, unannounced, at the door of his former mistress Velvet (Alice Eve). Someone who he hasn't had contact with for 4 years, so naturally she is quite surprised to see him with bags in hand, and with her surprise comes his anger for he wants seemingly expected them to pick up from where they left off. Thing is, her feelings have faded with time, perhaps due to lack of patience, and definitely a bit of fear. Leading you to wonder if when all is said and done, will someone leave in a body bag or perhaps could things end peacefully as they might have before?
Praise
This film, all throughout, got an emotional response from me. Some Velvet Morning is the type of film which makes you yell at the screen and get frustrated to the point you want to jump into the movie and do something. This is all thanks to an enraging story and performances by both Tucci and Eve which surely get you into their characters quick. For their performances make this almost like seeing a 1st class Broadway play. They go back and forth and puts you on the edge of your seat as you fear the worse and hope for the best. Especially as you see both of their patience degrade to the point where pleasantries are thrown out the window. And truly, I am surprised this film wasn't nominated for any type of accolades.
Criticism
But with that said, I should note as much as this film can be maddening in a good way it also can be in a bad way. For one, the film repeats itself over and over in a pattern which adds a bit more detail each time the argument restarts again. And not to fully spoil the movie, but the basic pattern is Fred getting angry, Velvet getting scared, Fred trying to explain why he is angry, Velvet trying to appease him, Fred calming down, and then repeat. However, while that way of storytelling did get a bit too repetitive for me, really it is the ending which pushed me over the edge for it doesn't at all release this tension you have been building up inside of you. Instead it makes your anger simmer and settle in your shoulder and back muscles giving you no relief what so ever.
Overall: Worth Seeing
This film is so polarizing for me. As much as I want to label it "Worth Seeing" I want to say to "Skip It" with "TV Viewing" not really being a viable option. For I hate this film with a burning passion, yet I feel it is so rare for a film to maintain you being connected and engaged throughout the entire thing. But, at the same time, your engagement is based on rage and passion which is never appeased. So while I say this is worth watching for the story and performances, realize you will not get any satisfaction out of the ending, no matter how clever it maybe.
With no knowledge of who Alice Eve is, what drew me to this was Stanley Tucci. The man who can be found in so many of your favorite films, almost always with a different personality in each one. But while I must admit his involvement was certainly a draw, perhaps the real big interest for me came from the fact there were solely two people in the cast. Leading to the question: Do these two actors keep your attention over the course of the movie?
Characters & Story
Fred (Stanley Tucci) is a man who has seemingly left it all. He has left his wife of 20+ years and decides to show up, unannounced, at the door of his former mistress Velvet (Alice Eve). Someone who he hasn't had contact with for 4 years, so naturally she is quite surprised to see him with bags in hand, and with her surprise comes his anger for he wants seemingly expected them to pick up from where they left off. Thing is, her feelings have faded with time, perhaps due to lack of patience, and definitely a bit of fear. Leading you to wonder if when all is said and done, will someone leave in a body bag or perhaps could things end peacefully as they might have before?
Praise
This film, all throughout, got an emotional response from me. Some Velvet Morning is the type of film which makes you yell at the screen and get frustrated to the point you want to jump into the movie and do something. This is all thanks to an enraging story and performances by both Tucci and Eve which surely get you into their characters quick. For their performances make this almost like seeing a 1st class Broadway play. They go back and forth and puts you on the edge of your seat as you fear the worse and hope for the best. Especially as you see both of their patience degrade to the point where pleasantries are thrown out the window. And truly, I am surprised this film wasn't nominated for any type of accolades.
Criticism
But with that said, I should note as much as this film can be maddening in a good way it also can be in a bad way. For one, the film repeats itself over and over in a pattern which adds a bit more detail each time the argument restarts again. And not to fully spoil the movie, but the basic pattern is Fred getting angry, Velvet getting scared, Fred trying to explain why he is angry, Velvet trying to appease him, Fred calming down, and then repeat. However, while that way of storytelling did get a bit too repetitive for me, really it is the ending which pushed me over the edge for it doesn't at all release this tension you have been building up inside of you. Instead it makes your anger simmer and settle in your shoulder and back muscles giving you no relief what so ever.
Overall: Worth Seeing
This film is so polarizing for me. As much as I want to label it "Worth Seeing" I want to say to "Skip It" with "TV Viewing" not really being a viable option. For I hate this film with a burning passion, yet I feel it is so rare for a film to maintain you being connected and engaged throughout the entire thing. But, at the same time, your engagement is based on rage and passion which is never appeased. So while I say this is worth watching for the story and performances, realize you will not get any satisfaction out of the ending, no matter how clever it maybe.
Best acting I have seen in decades
cosoco079 November 2021
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