With the film set in New York City during the 1960s, the soundtrack, produced by T Bone Burnett, uses folk music appropriate to the time period. With the exception of Bob Dylan's "Farewell" and Dave Van Ronk's "Green, Green Rocky Road", the rest of the tracks are modern recordings.
The New York Times: A.O. Scott of The New York Times lauds Inside Llewyn Davis as a "minor masterpiece." He praises the Coen brothers' ability to craft a film that delves deep into the complexities of the human condition, while also paying homage to the folk music tradition of the era. Scott highlights the exceptional performance by Oscar Isaac, who brings a raw and vulnerable authenticity to the character of Llewyn Davis. The review applauds the film's melancholic tone, meticulous attention to detail, and thought-provoking exploration of the elusive nature of artistic success.
RogerEbert.com: Matt Zoller Seitz of RogerEbert.com commends Inside Llewyn Davis for its impeccable craftsmanship and the Coen brothers' ability to create a cinematic experience that resonates on multiple levels. He describes the film as a "haunting character study," emphasizing the meticulous period recreation, atmospheric cinematography, and richly layered screenplay. Seitz praises the performances of the entire cast, including standout supporting roles by Carey Mulligan, John Goodman, and Justin Timberlake. He also recognizes the film's profound exploration of identity, sacrifice, and the relentless pursuit of artistic expression.
The Guardian: Peter Bradshaw of The Guardian gives Inside Llewyn Davis a glowing review, hailing it as a "tremendously moving and richly enjoyable film." He praises the Coen brothers' ability to blend dark humor with poignant drama, creating a compelling narrative that immerses the audience in Llewyn Davis' world. Bradshaw commends Oscar Isaac's mesmerizing performance, noting his exceptional musical talent and ability to convey the character's internal struggles with authenticity. The review also praises the film's exceptional soundtrack, featuring soul-stirring folk songs that serve as a reflection of the protagonist's emotional journey.
Variety: Justin Chang of Variety commends Inside Llewyn Davis for its beautifully rendered depiction of the folk music scene in 1960s New York. He praises the Coen brothers' attention to detail and ability to create an immersive atmosphere that transports viewers to a bygone era. Chang highlights the film's introspective nature, noting how it explores themes of artistic integrity, personal responsibility, and the elusive nature of success. He also recognizes the film's rich character development and the nuanced performances that bring the complex array of personalities to life.
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