Apr 28 2008First Look at the 'Synecdoche, New York' Surreal, Funny, Dramatic Artist Studio

Yes, technically this is just Catherine Keener and Philip Seymour Hoffman standing in a dingy artist's studio. But it's also a scene in Being John Malkovich and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind writer Charlie Kaufman's first directorial effort, Synecdoche, New York--only the second shot since this one--so I'm somewhat justified in my genuine excitement. In what way will the above conversation use a mix of quirky surrealism, deadpan humor, and heart-wrenching drama to broaden my understanding of the tragedy of human existence? I don't know, but I'm certain it will.

Cannes Watch: Kaufman's Synecdoche, New York [Thompson on Hollywood]