Every person’s thoughts plague their emotions. These thoughts, or voices, motivate us to follow our dreams, fall into risky situations, and walk through the many sides of life.
Usually, such voices remain in the shadows of the imagination and rarely make appearances in physical form. However, that is not the case for Jerry Hickfang (Ryan Reynolds). Jerry’s voices manifest in the personalities of Mr. Whiskers the cat and Bosco the dog.
Directed by Academy Award-nominated Marjane Satrapi, “The Voices” makes the mannerisms of common household pets come alive. In fact, Mr. Whiskers and Bosco are so alive they speak, rationalize, and plot.
Mr. Whiskers and Bosco act as Jerry’s personal devil and angel. Anyone who has owned a dog knows they are man’s best friend and have the power to lighten up a bad day. People who have cats understand they are independent, vindictive, and have a mind of their own. It is evident Satrapi understands such stereotypes. In fact, whenever the camera cuts to Mr. Whiskers, he is giving it the death glance. You know, the look cats give when you haven’t been home for a day and they are hungry. And when the screen flashes the movements of Bosco, he is giving that dumb yet lovable look.
From perfectly highlighting the movements of cats and dogs to depicting the world of Jerry, the likeable serial killer, it is clear Satrapi is not without directing chops. By using bright colors and foreign scenery, she is able to make this psychological thriller fanciful and fun.
In case the Scottish voice of Mr. Whiskers and the happy sounds of Bosco became too realistic, Satrapi and the crew of “The Voices” chose to film the movie in Germany. While the Sundance flick takes place in an American dead-end town, the setting of a European country reminds the viewer that Jerry is not in the “real world.” He is in a world where he lets his imagination run wild. Also, the 1960s wardrobe notifies the audience that Jerry is not in current day’s time or place.
From talented directing to superb acting, “The Voices” is its own genre. Known for roles in romantic comedies such as “The Proposal” and “Just Friends,” Reynolds takes his acting to a new level with this movie. His facial expressions create the personality of a sad and mentally ill protagonist. In addition, his voiceover skills are brought to the forefront. To remind the audience that the dialogue of Mr. Whiskers and Bosco are, in fact, the ideas and feelings of Jerry, Reynolds provides the accents and tones of both pets. Who thought Ryan Reynolds could pull off a Scottish accent? I certainly didn’t.
The supporting cast of Gemma Arterton (Fiona) and Anna Kendrick (Lisa) also add to the movie’s pizzazz. Arterton is great at playing the snobbish, British Fiona, while Kendrick paints the picture of the sweet and innocent Lisa.
While “The Voices” excels on many levels, it is unlikely to become a box office hit. Its heavy content and outrageous storyline will most likely persuade a number of moviegoers to jump from their seats and leave the theater. However, to those who have experienced the turmoil of depression, the film is sure to strike a chord. While it may not receive a large amount of ticket sales, it will certainly become a cult classic.
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