A SERIOUS MAN SHOULD BE TAKEN, WELL, SERIOUSLY—BUT THERE IS TRAGICOMEDY, TOO
The title of the film A Serious Man, directed by Joel and Ethan Coen, is what a rabbi says in praise of a deceased gentleman at a funeral. The year is 1967. Professor Larry Gopnik (played by Michael Stuhlbarg) is teaching, grading papers, confusing his students with Heisbenberg’s uncertainty principle, and supporting his family. But he is not a particularly exciting person, just an ordinary man trying to lead a respectable life. But soon his life comes crashing down upon him from all sides. What does he do? For more details, see the more complete review on the website www.polfilms.com by clicking “Reviews of Other Films.” Or just see the film and reflect on its wisdom. MH