I'm not terribly familiar with contemporary Hungarian cinema, but from what I gather Dealer appears to be the work of one of its most promising figures. Cinematography, rhythm (to some extent), nuances, symbolism; Fliegauf seems to have a grasp of all of these. Dealer isn't a masterpiece in my mind, though.
The acting is far from impeccable at parts. For example, when the dealer's female friend is talking to her boyfriend on the phone, you don't even get the impression that someone else is on the other line. You sense that the actor is more concerned with her English than playing her part. And even though the dealer's emasculate voice reflects a person not much less fragile than those he provides drugs to, I'm still not sure if the actor possesses all the brooding characteristics required for the role. The parts with his father and supposed child work to a tee, however.
As for the film being too long or too slow, I disagree. Still, a few more rhythmic change-ups would've been welcome. The dialogue reminded me a bit of Kaurismäki with its subtle humor and focus on only what's essential. The Tarkovski comparisons aren't far-fetched, either; with the ending striking up images of Solaris. Another Tarkovski-like trait the director has is his willingness to let things take their time. These precious moments when "nothing happens" allow the viewer to reflect on what he's seen and what's yet to come. The ambiance, the colors, the streets of the city the dealer travels by bike, and the way the director explores his theme, all of these assure that Dealer will stay with me for a while. Extra points for the song that closes the film.
The acting is far from impeccable at parts. For example, when the dealer's female friend is talking to her boyfriend on the phone, you don't even get the impression that someone else is on the other line. You sense that the actor is more concerned with her English than playing her part. And even though the dealer's emasculate voice reflects a person not much less fragile than those he provides drugs to, I'm still not sure if the actor possesses all the brooding characteristics required for the role. The parts with his father and supposed child work to a tee, however.
As for the film being too long or too slow, I disagree. Still, a few more rhythmic change-ups would've been welcome. The dialogue reminded me a bit of Kaurismäki with its subtle humor and focus on only what's essential. The Tarkovski comparisons aren't far-fetched, either; with the ending striking up images of Solaris. Another Tarkovski-like trait the director has is his willingness to let things take their time. These precious moments when "nothing happens" allow the viewer to reflect on what he's seen and what's yet to come. The ambiance, the colors, the streets of the city the dealer travels by bike, and the way the director explores his theme, all of these assure that Dealer will stay with me for a while. Extra points for the song that closes the film.