If asked to provide the title of my favorite Coen Brothers film, I choose:

Barton Fink.

I love the up-and-coming dramatic writer going to Hollywood & being forced to write a "wrestling picture." (A wrestling picture, Barton. Big men, in tights, both physically and mentally!)

I love the cutting-edge script supervisor, Giesel (NOT Giesel!) who talks like a hard-boiled detective. "You think because you're a writer that makes you special? Throw a rock in here, you'll hit a dozen writers. And do me a favor Barton, throw it hard!"

I love the William-Faulkner-goes-to-Hollywood character who offers to help Barton out, and his secretary, and their relationship.

And, of course, Barton's neighbor in the hotel. Truly classic.

One odd moment that I find hilarious in the film occurs on the hotel elevator. Barton asks the ashen elevator operator whether he has ever read the Bible. The elevator operator asks, in return: "Holy Bible?"

To which Barton replies, "yes." And the elevator operator says: "No, I haven't read that."

That scene slays me every time.

So, what is your personal favorite Coen Bros. film, and why?

Herring405