The famous philosopher Plato once said, “Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination and life to everything.” One’s life is not simply measured by the moments of their life but rather the lasting impression that one creates during their time. The philosopher Plato’s resolve resonates in the short film CODA, as the main character Henry (Patrick Stewart) attempts to reconnect with his former love after a tragedy has unfolded.
A Coda is defined in music as a passage that brings a piece or a movement to an end. With such an ominous title, the audience is forced to wait with baited breathe to see what awful things could happen. CODA is the story of Henry Cole, a famous pianist, who is struggling with stage fright in the twilight of his career. With the help of a former music student turned journalist, Helen Morrison (Katie Holmes), Henry is able to reconnect with the music he plays. Henry’s Agent Paul (Giancarlo Esposito) is a driving force that encourages Henry to push beyond his limitations; he is the guiding hand that pairs Helen and Henry together to reignite the spark within Henry’s soul.
Primary Cast
Sir Patrick Stewart is best known for his roles as Jean-Luc Picard in Star Trek, Charles Xaver in the X-Men films, Avery Bullock in American Dad, and The Narrator in Ted. Katie Holmes is best known for her roles as Joey Potter in Dawson’s Creek, Rachel Dawes in Batman Begins, and Jackie Kennedy in The Kennedys. Giancarlo Esposito is best known for his roles as Gustavo ‘Gus’ Fring in Breaking Bad & Better Call Saul, Moff Gideon in The Mandalorian, The narrator in Dear White People, Sidney Glass in Once Upon a Time, and Jack Baer in The Usual Suspects.
Plot
The American poet Langston Hughes once said, “Life is for the living. Death is for the dead. Let life be like music. And death a note unsaid.” Hughes’ words resonate throughout the film with the movie alluding to key events transpiring without ever fully addressing the events directly. At that start of the film, Mr. Cole seems to be struggling with stage fright and potential memory loss; however, as the movie unfolds the audience discovers that Mr. Cole’s ailment is caused by the loss of a loved one. After a prying interaction with Ms. Morrison, the two form an intimate bond which is one of the overarching themes of the movie. What starts out as a general acquaintance inspired by journalistic curiosity evolves into a more comfortable companionship. Ms. Morrison’s optimism counterbalances Sir Cole’s realistic view.
Henry Cole seems to lead a quiet and solitary life following the death of his loved one; he likes all quiet forms of life including pretty flowers. Helen and Paul desire to bring out Henry’s passion for music and encourage him to share his unique emotional approach with others. Henry states, “Being unique is a desirable attribute for stamps or landscapes but in a pianist it spells trouble.” He believes that music is a dangerous business. Helen, on the other hand, believes that success often covers a flaw or wound that is still operating in the background; however, music, like writing, has the ability to express one’s feelings without ever formerly conveying them. Music allows the audience to peer into the soul of the composer showing what it is like to be alive and to feel. The attribute that sets the great composers apart from the average musician is the way they can channel their own emotions into the pieces they are performing; breathing the essence of their soul into the preestablished piece. Finally, Paul is the voice of realism in Henry’s life. He encourages Henry to push past mental limitations and impact future generations. When speaking to Sir Henry, he states, “often the neurotic Bugbear will say nay. What if I miss the shot or turn the steering wheel suddenly. Tell that Bugbear to fuck off.” He pushes Henry past his limitations while respecting most of his wishes. In the end, he is able to aid Henry in his vanquishing of the Bugbear.
Character Portrayal
Overall the acting in CODA is one of the most impactful elements in the movie. Each character’s role is believable and adds a human element to the celebrities portraying them while also adding a core element of everyday life to the production. Patrick Stewart’s depiction of an old man struggling with the death of a loved one while trying to function under pressure is believable and reminds us of many Elders in our own lives. What is it like to have death stalking us in the night or to live in the present knowing that our time is limited? Katie Holmes’ character is of a passionate and caring individual who strives to see the best in people. She desires to find their real truth, what makes someone tick or stay on their current beat. Throughout the movie, she is an enabler and even in the sight of adversity finds the bright side of life. Giancarlo Esposito brings a managerial aspect to CODA. He is compassionate but realistic, encouraging Stewart’s character to push forward despite push back; he is able to find alternatives to empower Sir Henry Cole through trials and tribulations. Finally, Christoph Gaugler’s character of a night steward depicts an element of the everyday working class while respecting Stewart’s character and treating him like the average human being.
Actors Depiction
Stewart’s depiction of Sir Henry Cole is believable, blurring the line between fiction and reality. He has the ability to portray different emotions throughout the movie. Katie Holmes’ character seems rather one dimensional, only ever portraying optimism convincingly. When speaking of loss or rejection, you do not feel like she has actually suffered; you do not feel bad for her character despite her rejection and failures. Although Holmes’ character is significant, Stewart’s character is the more convincing of the pair. Esposito’s’ character reminds me of the positive managers in your own life, knowing when to push you and when to know your limitations. He is able to connect with the audience, showing that a manager can be more than a business relationship and can be an empathic friend. Finally, Christoph Gaugler’s character of Feliz conveys that a friend and comforting ear can be found in unexpected places. He convincingly depicts reverence towards Sir Henry Cole while bringing a sympathetic approach to Cole’s internal struggle.
Sound/Music
The music in CODA is a combination of classical pieces; it is not the primary focus of the movie but rather an accompaniment conveying the emotions depicted in the scene. The movie features some classical works by Beethoven, Bach, Rachmaninoff, Chopin, and Schubert. Most of the classical compositions come during environmental or emotionally focused scenes. A few classic works are played while Stewart’s character is on stage. The movie also focuses on the melody of nature, showing THAT nature has its own form of music. The sound of a waterfall crashing down a mountain brings surrealism to the environment that Sir Henry Cole has isolated himself in. The movie has a minimalistic original score, focusing on what is being shown and said rather than cheap thrills.
Cinematography
CODA is a film focused on a sense of scale. The movie is not linear, jumping from the past to the present while giving a minimal indication beyond Stewart’s point of view. The cinematography often focuses on a boulder and the area surrounding it that is referenced by Katie Holmes’s character. The director shows the boulder in varying ways to deceive the audience on the visual representation in the film. Until you see the boulder fully in the film, you are not able to grasp previous scenes depictions. Two scenes still stand out to me for their visual representation. The first scene is the depiction of the waterfall showing nature’s majestic beauty. While the second scene is a long-distance zoom onto Patrick Stewart’s character as if another entity is focusing in on him from above.
Entertainment Factor
CODA is able to keep the audience’s attention while not producing a fun atmosphere. With a lack of explanation, the audience is required to surmise varying outcomes. After watching CODA, there is no strong connection formed; the movie feels bland as if consuming for nutrients rather than pleasure. The movie provides great philosophical elements but doesn’t leave one to ponder any specific one. CODA is a one and done experience. Those who see the film will be content with watching it once but will likely have little desire to go back for another viewing.
Conclusion
CODA is a musical composition that despite having major star power and breathtaking scenery leaves us feeling content but not satisfied. Patrick Stewart gives a great performance while Katie Holmes leaves more to be desired. The musical accompaniment conveys more emotion than Ms. Holmes character. Where is the Holmes from Batman Begins or Dawson’s Creek? CODA is visually appealing with breathtaking nature shots and interesting lighting contrasts.
If you love Patrick Stewart, CODA is a unique thought-provoking piece; otherwise, go into CODA with an open mind.
A digital review copy of CODA was provided by Gravitas Ventures for the purpose of review.
