Media Composite Score: 77
Surprise, absolute surprise!
Although it didn't ignite a wave of praise like a 99 score, Elephant's return to the North American market managed to turn the tide of its reputation, delivering an impressive and satisfying performance.
From the score alone, it's clear that controversies remain. This is obviously not a universally adored work, but the intrigue surrounding the debate only piques curiosity. Under the cover of such a composite score, praise and affirmation undoubtedly dominate. So, how will the general public perceive it?
Surprisingly, the audience score was revealed early.
As mentioned before, the so-called "audience score" is compiled from surveys filled out by moviegoers immediately after leaving the screening.
This score reflects the preferences of the general public more directly than any other metric—
- Master and Commander: B.
- The Butterfly Effect: A.
Clear as day, audience scores indicate audience preferences. That The Butterfly Effect became a box office hit isn't surprising.
Typically, however, audience scores are limited to films with a wide release.
1. They require a large enough sample size.
2. The scoring organizations primarily collaborate with major chain theaters.
As a result, films shown only in art house cinemas during limited screenings rarely receive audience scores. Some films go through their entire run without one.
Then came the unexpected—
Elephant received an audience score.
This event caught the attention of major outlets like The New York Times and The Los Angeles Times, prompting immediate reporting.
According to these reports, despite its limited release, Elephant sold out every single screening, providing enough data for an audience score. For the first time, a reference score was issued.
However, the scoring organization issued a special note: Data from limited screenings is for reference only.
The key takeaway is that during limited screenings, the feedback primarily comes from film enthusiasts, die-hard fans, and professionals, differing slightly from general audience responses.
Even so, the audience score was dazzling—
A-.
Media outlets gasped.
Despite understanding the caveats surrounding limited screening scores, seeing this grade left journalists stunned.
Many doubted their eyes.
The Cannes Echoes Resurface
In an era without social media, real-time feedback from the Cannes Film Festival wasn't accessible to everyone. Unlike today, when film fans worldwide can virtually "attend" Cannes through live updates, seven months had passed since the festival before Elephant's limited screenings brought its discussions back into the limelight.
Viewer Comments:
- "The film transforms an ordinary day into something extraordinary."
- "Innovative! The collective silence depicted through calm cinematography reflects societal realities, making the school a microcosm of society."
- "Gus Van Sant's use of camera work deserves more attention. I believe he intentionally infused a touch of warmth to offset the brutality of violence."
- "The editing flows seamlessly. The blend of piano sequences with gaming visuals finds a connection in contrasting styles, using montage to reveal hidden power. Gus Van Sant is brilliant!"
- "In some ways, it reminds me of Michael Haneke's work, examining how media operates between film and reality. Gus Van Sant shows early signs of mastery."
Now that these comments have surfaced, many realized that even at Cannes, amidst the controversies, praise for Elephant was already prevalent.
As time has passed, the film's impact has only grown.
Reflecting on the Cannes experience months later, with time to process and distance from the bombardment of daily screenings, Elephant stands out in memory for its lasting impression and thought-provoking content.
- "This year's main competition had many great entries, but Elephant lingers like Dogville."
- "I didn't like Elephant at Cannes; it left no impression. But now, it's the one I think about most. I need to see it again."
- "I'm a staunch Dogville fan, but Gus Van Sant's understated approach shows depth and breadth."
A Brewing Storm of Curiosity
With other Cannes hits like Mystic River and Dogville already rolling out, audiences finally have their chance to judge these films for themselves.
Elephant has sparked a fresh wave of debates, excitement, and curiosity, and even media outlets, initially dismissive of its box office prospects, are now intrigued. Could its weekend screenings truly deliver a surprise?
The idea alone was electrifying.
While The Butterfly Effect's box office success stunned everyone, Elephant was widely expected to remain a niche artistic triumph. Now, it seemed poised to challenge expectations.
The thought of Elephant achieving even modest box office success alongside its Palme d'Or win was enough to ignite widespread interest.
Anson's Indifference
Amid the buzz, Anson remained detached.
Avoiding news and social media while temporarily shutting out his agents Edgar and Eve, Anson escaped the Hollywood bubble. He focused entirely on his craft, immersing himself in his role while savoring the theater scene in New York.
It wasn't until Saturday that Anson suddenly remembered—
Elephant had opened in theaters!
(End of Chapter)