Don Jon
Dir: Joseph Gordon-Levitt
2013
****
Don Jon is one hell of a debut film from Joseph Gordon-Levitt. Directing is something you can pick up while working in film I'm sure but writing a successful and original script requires talent and that's what Joseph Gordon-Levitt has in spades. Casting Tony Danza as his father is enough for me to love this film but it is its originality and alternative look at love and romance that really impresses. Exploring one's inner ignorance, the modern view of what love is (brilliantly explored from both ends of the spectrum; Church and internet porn) and the idea of someone as an object or a 'thing' rather than a person that you love are elements generally ignored by Hollywood or simply churned out as ridiculous gross-out comedies or contrived high-school dramas, none of which star Tony Danza. Dry in its humour, uplifting in its conclusion and impressive in its performances. Joseph Gordon-Levitt can do no wrong although my only criticism would be that it needed more Tony Danza.