Barton Fink? WTF?

[FunBobbyMucha]

What was in the box? Did Muntz kill the Fink clan? Why is the hotel on fire? Why is the swimmer at the end also in the photo above BF's desk? Is the whole thing writer's block? Is he really just sitting in the hotel room unable to write?

Since we're on movies today, what is the point of this movie? I've watched it a dozen times and I love the Coens, I even love the movie, but can't pretend to get it.

Thoughts? Theories? Wild Guesses?

[Richardo]

1. I love the Coen Brothers but hated this movie...

...watched it once and didn't even care to ask, let alone answer, your questions.

I officially did not get Barton Fink.

[mac56]

2. I couldn't agree more.

Love the Coen bros.; hate this movie. Have had some interesting arguments with friends who think it's the greatest thing since canned corn.

Idoan geddit!

[Loonman]

3. Some say Miller's Crossing is the weakest film

But I think it's "Barton Fink".

[agitpropagent9]

4. might be a good place to start

http://www.aboutfilm.com/movies/b/bartonfink.htm

the film works on a lot of levels, not the least of which is a writer's descent into madness brought on by a combination of writer's block and the stark reality of commercialism v. art.

also, here are the coens being interviewed about the film:

http://www.coenbrothers.net/interviewbarton.html

as for me, i'm a huge coen fan, and barton fink ranks among their top 3 with me, along with fargo and lebowski.

it's a film that almost demands multiple viewings in order to peel away the layers.