Let Them All Talk – A Journey of Friendship and Unspoken Words

Let Them All Talk (2020) is a gem in the illustrious career of director Steven Soderbergh, a sophisticated comedy-drama featuring the stellar trio of Meryl Streep, Candice Bergen, and Dianne Wiest. Premiering on HBO Max in December 2020, the film is not just a story about friendship but also a profound exploration of time, legacy, and the weight of words left unsaid.

A Story Aboard the Queen Mary 2

The film centers on Alice Hughes (Meryl Streep), a celebrated Pulitzer Prize-winning author who embarks on a transatlantic cruise aboard the Queen Mary 2 to receive a prestigious literary award in England. Accompanying Alice are two old college friends, Roberta (Candice Bergen) and Susan (Dianne Wiest), along with her nephew Tyler (Lucas Hedges) and her new literary agent Karen (Gemma Chan).

What begins as a seemingly relaxing voyage quickly evolves into an emotional journey as past secrets and unresolved tensions among the three friends surface. Alice, with the arrogance of a successful artist, must confront the hurt she unknowingly caused Roberta and Susan. Meanwhile, Tyler and Karen get entangled in their own subplots, weaving a complex yet captivating web of relationships.

Soderbergh’s Distinctive Directorial Style

Steven Soderbergh once again showcases his multifaceted talent, serving as director, cinematographer (under the pseudonym Peter Andrews), and editor (under the pseudonym Mary Ann Bernard). Filmed in just six days on the actual Queen Mary 2, the movie employs a minimalist yet effective approach. A standout feature of Let Them All Talk is its use of improvised dialogue, allowing the actors to freely shape their characters’ personalities. The result is authentic, sharp, and natural conversations that make viewers feel as though they’re witnessing real-life moments.

The luxurious ship setting is more than just a backdrop; it symbolizes the characters’ inner journeys. Vast ocean vistas intertwine with the cozy intimacy of cabins and dining rooms, captured through Soderbergh’s deft lens, creating an atmosphere that is both expansive and intimate.

Stellar Performances

Unsurprisingly, the cast of Let Them All Talk is the heart of the film. Meryl Streep delivers a nuanced performance as Alice, balancing arrogance and vulnerability in a way that makes the character both relatable and frustrating. Candice Bergen shines as Roberta, portraying a woman carrying the bitterness of her past while maintaining humor and resilience. Dianne Wiest, as Susan, is the gentle soul of the trio, bringing balance with her subtlety and warmth.

Lucas Hedges and Gemma Chan, though in supporting roles, leave their mark with memorable moments. Hedges’ Tyler is a curious but awkward young man, while Chan’s Karen represents a new generation, ambitious yet sincere.

Themes and Significance

Let Them All Talk is not a film driven by dramatic climaxes or shocking twists. Instead, it focuses on the small but meaningful aspects of life: long-lasting friendships, forgiveness, and how we confront regrets. The movie poses poignant questions: How do we mend past rifts? Is it ever too late to say what matters most?

Thomas Newman’s gentle score enhances the film’s emotional depth without overpowering the narrative. The dialogue, penned by Deborah Eisenberg and improvised by the cast, is both clever and relatable, allowing audiences to connect deeply with the characters.

Reception and Where to Watch

The film earned an 88% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and praise for its outstanding performances and innovative direction. While some viewers found the pacing slow, Let Them All Talk remains a perfect choice for those who appreciate character-driven stories and everyday moments.

Viewers can stream Let Them All Talk on HBO Max (or Max, depending on the region). In Vietnam, availability may vary, so check platforms like Amazon Prime, Apple TV, or consider using a VPN to access HBO Max.

Conclusion

Let Them All Talk is a warm, insightful, and deeply human film, where veteran actors shine and a story of friendship resonates with audiences. With Steven Soderbergh’s unique directorial flair and a talented ensemble cast, this is a must-watch for those seeking a humorous yet moving tale about life and relationships. Board the Queen Mary 2 with Alice and her friends, and let this film take you on a memorable journey.

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