The Loss of a Teardrop Diamond – Review
Tennessee Williams wrote many beautiful stories throughout his life, and one of those that had not seen the light of day until now is The Loss of a Teardrop Diamond. Set in the beautiful backdrop of the old South in the 1920s, Fisher’s (Bryce Dallas Howard) struggles with her place in the world when it comes crumbling down on her with the loss of a simple earring.
Unfortunately, this film has it’s own struggle with it’s strange and mainly un-eventful story. The plot moves at the speed of molasses, barely kicking in around thirty minutes into the movie, proving this to be one of Tennessee Williams’ less-impressive pieces of work. With a strong cast and surprisingly fine direction from Jodie Markell in her sophomore pic, it keeps you sane for a duration of the movie.
Howard’s portrayal of Fisher, a stubborn and confused woman whom you question could have any form of friends at all, is commendable as she seems to take on the role completely, seeping into a character whose personality makes her too difficult to even side with until near the end of the movie. Chris Evans as Jimmy is strange, unpredictable role where he basically stands around like a statue throughout a majority of the film, which does not really help move it forward at all. The remainder of the cast is decent but forgettable, hard to swallow, and difficult to even try siding with in this scenic background that is at times more enjoyable than some of the characters themselves.
Markell treats the camera like an audience at a play, everything amped up to a higher dramatic standpoint that works many times through the film. What Williams’ story lacks in pacing and a some what cold story line is made up by a strong female lead and the careful vision of the director. While Markell’s directing and Howard’s acting do give some points to the film, the sluggish plot and other yawn-worthy performances from the rest of the cast are too much to bear. It’s admirable that Markell chose a selection from one of America’s greatest playwrights, but it’s disappointing that it’s a story that perhaps was not worth it.
Rating: 
