I'm convinced that the internet has erased all meaning from the word "pretentious." It once meant exactly what it sounds like, pretending to be something other than what you are.
This film, along with all non-standard films, has evoked countless online accusations of pretense, which in the world of online movie reviews actually just means that the reviewer found it weird and boring.
The film does not, and be aware of this is if you plan on watching it, contain a plot-based, narrative fantasy for viewers to follow to a satisfying conclusion. What it does is combine together short slice-of-life vignettes with the reading of various bits of aesthetic and philosophical manifestos.
Its appeal will be limited to only people who find the rantings of tortured souls interesting. I have actually read quite a few of the bits that were included in the film, and I find the whole absurd reality of artistic manifestos and philosophical creeds fascinating, so I enjoyed the film. If you're not that kind of nerd, you won't like it.
But is it pretentious? No. It did not pretend to be anything other than what it was: a presentation of some famous manifestos in combination with scenes from ordinary life. It is certainly weird, and it will certainly bore most viewers.
As always Cate Blanchett's performance is incredible. The cinematography is impeccable.
