It was supposed to be a horror movie! ? The fantastical world depicted by “Synecdoche, New York”

Every time I look at it, I get a different way of interpreting it.

Since its release in 2008, various interpretations and theories have been generated about this postmodern work. Some people have compared it to the legendary music video for Bjork's " Bachelorette ." Directed by Michel Gondry, who is also known for his collaboration with Kaufman, the film tells the story of a man who one day finds a book in the forest that predicts the future, and the events that occur in the book are exactly as they are in the book. The book is then published and adapted for the stage, and one after another, multiple structures begin to emerge, like a matryoshka doll.

Although the contents and storylines are completely different, if we focus only on the element of inner proliferation, it is very similar to "The Synecdoche, New York." Although this film is not a collaboration between Gondry and Kaufman, when comparing the two films, we can see that the two men share very similar consciousness, sensibilities, and imaginations.

However, the better the screenwriter, the more they dislike their work or their reputation being solidified or remaining in one place. Charlie Kaufman is no different. "I want people to interpret my work differently every time they see it" (*2), and the happiest moment for him is when the audience offers an interpretation or comment that he never intended. "Because that's proof that the work is alive" (*3).

This film is one of a kind, and audience reactions and impressions will vary from person to person. Anyone can become free by jumping into it as their true self. No complicated knowledge is required. That is the great appeal of this film.

“Synecdoche, New York” (C)2008 KIMMEL DISTRIBUTION, LLC All Rights Reserved

This is a masterpiece that you will want to savor over and over again at various times in life, including the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the brilliant performance of Philip Seymour Hoffman, who passed away in 2014.

(*2, *3) Quoted from the press release at the time of release

Reference materials)

Press materials for theatrical release

https://www.ioncinema.com/news/uncategorized/interview-charlie-kaufman-synecdoche-new-york

Text: USHIZU ATSUNOBU

Born in Nagasaki in 1977. When he was 3 years old, he saw ``Superman II'' with his father and became fascinated with movies. After The Graduate from Meiji University, he worked for a movie broadcasting channel and then became a movie writer. Currently, in addition to writing for Eiga.com, EYESCREAM, Real Sound Movie Club, etc., he also contributes to media press and theater programs.

Watch now

View work information

"Synecdoche, New York"

DVD rental available

Publisher: Asmik / Distributor: Pony Canyon

(C)2008 KIMMEL DISTRIBUTION, LLC All Rights Reserved