Parents' Guide to Funny Face

Like a gloomier Joker at a fraction of the budget and half the speed, this unusual, pensive drama tells an eerily quiet and hypnotically effective story. Written and directed by Tim Sutton, Funny Face has a totally assured vision of a completely insulated and static New York, a place where things seem stuck and beauty is rare. Yet while the story lopes along in unmoving blocks, beauty does emerge. Saul has a favorite rooftop spot where he can sit and watch Coney Island, Zama goes shopping for a bright yellow hijab, and there's a dream of James Dean. Food is important, too, as when the couple devours gooey slices of pizza or delicious deli pickles.

Funny Face occasionally gives us glimpses of its villains: wealthy, elite people (played by fine actors like Jeremy Bobb and Victor Garber) who speak in devilish tones in dim rooms, as if money were their blood. They're totally disconnected from the outside world. And Saul's mask -- which appears out of nowhere -- is simply and brilliantly designed, coaxing deep unease with its sinister grin. To be sure, the movie progresses at such a low murmur that when Jarvis has his big moment, maniacally and feverishly trying to explain his devotion to the Knicks, it may seem like one of the greatest performances you've ever seen. Also great are Dan Hedaya and Rhea Perlman in just a couple of scenes as Saul's grandparents.