Film Review: The Lobster (15) (Ireland/UK/Greece/France/Netherlands 2015) (Director: Yorgos Lanthimos) (English and French with English Subtitles), Filmhouse, Screen One, Edinburgh, Monday 30.11.2015, 20:30

This is an incredibly absurd work of art, though not as absurd or as good as his previous film 'Alps' (2011), which is almost impossible to distil down to an essence which could adequately convey the complexity and breadth of the piece. Having said this, I laughed from the first scene (I think I was the only one to laugh at the first scene in a packed cinema) and remained engaged throughout. 

This is a surreal film that is based upon the idea that everyone has to be in a couple. If a person's relationship disintegrates for whatever reason, they have to go to a hotel where they have a set period of time to find a new 'mate'. If unsuccessful, they are turned into an animal of their choosing. The lead character played by Colin Farrell, chooses to become a Lobster, hence the title. 

I have to agree with what I have heard various critics say about it loosing it's focus once the action shifts from the hotel to the escapees in the forest. Though it is only in this part where it also becomes clear that the film is also about how most people misunderstand what empathy is. 

Although not perfect, it is great that films like this exist. Although I have more time for 'Alps', I feel it would be a lot easier to introduce people to the director's work via 'The Lobster', which is more accessible. 

Rating: 09/10.