"Tár" is a very intelligent film featuring an outstanding main character portrayed masterfully by Cate Blanchett. It unfolds slowly, almost documentary-like at times, while at other moments, it transitions into a thriller reminiscent of Kubrick and Tarkovsky. In this era where people prioritize their identity above all else, "Tár" exposes the deviation of what was once a just movement to address and uncover racism, patriarchy, and power abuses.
The film places a woman conductor at its center to deflect easy attacks on men and instead focus on power struggles within the art world (though it could apply elsewhere). Tár may be considered a "predator," but she is also an incredibly rare, passionate, and dedicated artist. So, how should we judge her? The film doesn't explicitly depict her alleged sexual encounters; instead, it allows viewers to imagine them and emphasizes the consequences on Tár and her environment.
The film doesn't aim to condemn Tár, and neither do I. I believe that both parties involved in a transactional relationship bear responsibility for the outcome, even if one is younger and less powerful than the other. They both seek something from each other, whether it's love, sex, money, or success, and their interactions can range from pleasant to unpleasant.
We don't see the perspective of the victim in the relationship (perhaps both are victims in the end), which would be important to consider. However, we do witness Tár experiencing a moment of conscience regarding how her power can coerce others into actions they don't want to take. It's subtle because I think she doesn't think of herself as a predator so this has to be right on her face.
The ending, without giving away spoilers, genuinely left me speechless, as it invites multiple interpretations. Yet, I'm not sure if any interpretation is definitively correct, and I've noticed that other viewers are just as puzzled as I am.
The film places a woman conductor at its center to deflect easy attacks on men and instead focus on power struggles within the art world (though it could apply elsewhere). Tár may be considered a "predator," but she is also an incredibly rare, passionate, and dedicated artist. So, how should we judge her? The film doesn't explicitly depict her alleged sexual encounters; instead, it allows viewers to imagine them and emphasizes the consequences on Tár and her environment.
The film doesn't aim to condemn Tár, and neither do I. I believe that both parties involved in a transactional relationship bear responsibility for the outcome, even if one is younger and less powerful than the other. They both seek something from each other, whether it's love, sex, money, or success, and their interactions can range from pleasant to unpleasant.
We don't see the perspective of the victim in the relationship (perhaps both are victims in the end), which would be important to consider. However, we do witness Tár experiencing a moment of conscience regarding how her power can coerce others into actions they don't want to take. It's subtle because I think she doesn't think of herself as a predator so this has to be right on her face.
The ending, without giving away spoilers, genuinely left me speechless, as it invites multiple interpretations. Yet, I'm not sure if any interpretation is definitively correct, and I've noticed that other viewers are just as puzzled as I am.
Tell Your Friends