The Lobster is a semi-surreal satire, incorporating romantic comedy elements. If this sounds complex, maybe it is because this film, much like its form, does not fall into one specific genre.
Directed by Greek filmmaker Yorgos Lanthimos, to a screenplay by Efthymis Filippou and Lanthimos, it is Lanthimos’ first foray into English language filmmaking.
The Lobster tells the story of a society obsessed with coupling people into relationship no matter what. It mocks both sides of the border – those who are forced into the courting rituals, and those who object it.
While the topic may seem appealing, Lanthimos use of symbolism is quite extensive. Not unenjoyable and often quite entertaining in a curious sort of way, still, IMHO it seems the filmmaker got carried away with allegories in manners that take away from whatever he wished to say. Thus The Lobster is less about plot and character but rather mostly driven by metaphors.
I can testify that about half way through the film, my feelings towards the protagonist shifted. “Let this guy die already,” I thought, “and be turned into a lobster. That sure as hell will be much more interesting than the plot, or thereof lack of one.” But hey, it may just be me as The Lobster did receive critical acclaim.
On the upside, the filmmaking itself is quite good as is the acting of the cast, which is headed by Colin Farrell, Rachel Weisz and John C. Reilly.