Cast overview, first billed only: | |||
Richard E. Grant | ... | Franklin Wilhern | |
Catherine O'Hara | ... | Jessica Wilhern | |
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Nick Prideaux | ... | Penelope's Great-Grandfather (as Nicholas Prideaux) |
Michael Feast | ... | Jake / Witch | |
Christina Ricci | ... | Penelope Wilhern | |
Ronni Ancona | ... | Wanda | |
Simon Woods | ... | Edward Vanderman | |
Paul Herbert | ... | Leonard Wilhern | |
Simon Chandler | ... | Doctor | |
Peter Dinklage | ... | Lemon | |
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Andi-Marie Townsend | ... | Young Penelope |
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John Voce | ... | Station Cop |
Burn Gorman | ... | Larry | |
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Andrew Bailey | ... | Floorman in Card Club |
James McAvoy | ... | Johnny / Max |
In this modern-day romantic tale, Penelope is about a young girl's inspiring journey, a mysterious family secret, and the power of love. With all odds against her, in order for Penelope to break the family curse, she must find true love with "one of her own kind". Penelope Wilhern, born to wealthy socialites, is afflicted by the Wilhern spell that can only be broken when she finds love. Hidden away in her family's estate, the lonely girl meets a string of suitors in her parents' futile attempt to break the curse. Each eligible bachelor is enamored with Penelope and her sizable dowry; until her curse is revealed. Lemon, a mischievous and eager tabloid reporter, wants a photograph of the mysterious Penelope and hires Max to pose as a prospective suitor to get the shot. The handsome down-on-his luck gambler finds himself falling for Penelope, but cannot bring himself to give her what she wants. Fed up by this latest betrayal and determined to live life on her own terms, Penelope breaks ... Written by Summit Entertainment
I saw this at a NY preview, and it was very much worth my time.
Cristina Ricci was excellent. I thought it was brave and smart of her to take on this role, and given the make up and costume she was very expressive and genuine eyes, eyes, eyes. If any of you have seen "Pumpkin" this character would be a polar opposite of that role, but just as tongue and cheek, and just as much fun.
James McAvoy looked great, as was his performance. Christina and James had sparks that were believable. The supporting cast was also fun and fanciful. Catherine O'Hara played an excellent zany Mom which was more believable and real, in a weird way, then her role in Beetle Juice, (a film I adore.) Reese Witherspoon, was strong as usual, even in this odd, small supporting role (given her filmography). She looked great as a lower east side character. The only disappointment was Richard E. Grant, and not by his doing. There was no chance for him to shine given the part. Something tells me he got lost on the cutting room floor. A zero role for him given his talent.
In sum, I am one for magic and fables, so for me this was a very enjoyable film. I forgot the time which is the best test of all. Bravo!