However, after four decades of collaborating, Joel and Ethan both directed their own solo projects.
These first independent projects highlight what each brother uniquely contributed to their previous collaborations.
Joel drew on the natural gravitas Shakespeares name brings to any project.
The movie starred Denzel Washington as Macbeth and Joels wife Frances McDormand as Lady Macbeth.
Washington and McDormands casting brings additional heft toThe Tragedy of Macbeth.
This suggestsJoel is more interested in existential questions than individual characterizations.
Joel merges his unique artistic vision with the classic material by creating a dreamlike, surrealist world.
TheTragedy of Macbethis very stylized, using high-contrast lighting and nods to German Expressionism through theatrical minimalism.
By stripping downMacbethto its essentials and emphasizing atmosphere, Joel showcases his talent for crafting tense, immersive worlds.
Their dynamic reflects Ethans fascination with unconventional relationships and flawed yet funny characters.
The tone of the movie is best conveyed by its original title:Drive-Away Dykes(viaRolling Stone.
)Drive-Away Dollsprovesthe biggest differences between the Coen brothers.
Drive-Away Dollscelebrates freedom and individuality, playfully absurd without dwelling on heavy introspection.
The inadvertent crime caper that is the bulk ofDrive-Away Dollscould have benefitted from more structure.
The film has an effortless breeziness that is fun, though it leaves some structural coherence to be desired.
Ethans humor counterbalances Joels introspection, allowing their work to balance suspense with laughter.
Joel adds a stylized visual aesthetic and a keen eye for composition.
Ethan breathes life into Joels controlled world.
…the magic is in how [the Coens'] strengths combine when they collaborate.
The film community does not holdThe Tragedy of MacbethorDrive-Away Dollsin the same reverence they holdThe Big LebowskiorFargo.
Luckily,the Coen brothers will reunitein an announced horror movie.
This is an exciting update, asthe Coen brothersseem to be better together than apart.
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