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ddagg2
Reviews
The Family Stone (2005)
Ignore the plot and focus on the message
I left the theater after seeing The Family Stone mildly entertained but more disappointed than anything else. I had high expectations based on the cast and what I had read about the film prior to its' release. Why then the disappointment? The cast was great (Keaton magnificent, Parker, Wilson and McAdams funny, Mulroney gorgeous) and I did laugh and was moved. The problem was with the construct. Specifically. too many balls being juggled to the detriment of the film as a whole and(as mentioned frequently)a hackneyed plot.
However, after getting home and thinking about the film and why it failed to live up to my expectations, my opinion changed for the better. Yes, the plot is convoluted, but I don't think that is the point of the film. The story is simply a device (in this instance a contrivance) to speak to the issue of family. That is ultimately what this film is about, not who winds up with who, or who has what disease; but the role family plays in our lives.
Bezucha is asking us to look at the family dynamic and how it can be both empowering and restrictive. This family is dealing with a huge problem and it is closing ranks. trying to preserve the dynamic in the face of imminent change. How people react in this situation is what the film is speaking to.
As a member of a large family, not unlike the Stones, I think the filmmaker got it right. So see the film not so much for the jokes or the story but to remember how your family makes you strong, drives you crazy, pigeonholes you and ultimately gives you comfort.
North Country (2005)
Engrossing Drama
I was concerned about seeing this film given some of the comments indicating a sell-out "hollywood ending". I am happy to say that my concerns were unfounded.
The film had my attention from the beginning to end. I think mostly because it did a good job of exploring characters, specifically characters who all lived in a very isolating milieu. During the film we come to understand how different people react to this environment. Though Charlize Theron is clearly the lead, we are given a very good glimpse into the perspectives of any number of supporting characters.
The acting is first rate -- especially McDormand, Jenkins and Bean, and Theron is as good as she was in Monster with a less showy part.
As for that worrisome ending, it worked for me. It moved me and it conveyed the idea of what really happened. Clearly, you don't have the time in a two hour movie to explain what was likely a complicated and time-consuming process. I was entertained, stimulated and moved.
Running on Empty (1988)
Great acting - universal themes
I just stopped flipping channels to watch the end of this wonderfully acted film, just as I will stop again in the future. The reason being it beautifully addresses the universal need all children have to leave home and become their own person.
This film uses a very specific and unique situation to explore this theme. While the plot is hung on some political ideology, it is merely a backdrop; please do not let that keep you from this deeply effecting film.
Many of the other comments speak to the wonderful acting, and it cannot be stressed enough. All of the principals are outstanding and the smaller roles are filled with care.
SPOILER: Though the whole film is moving and well acted, for me; the restaurant scene between Christine Lahti and Stephen Hill is sublime. Both underplay while still conveying a lifetime of pain, misunderstanding, regret and most of all the love between and parent and child. This scene encapsulates all of the themes the movie is concerned with, and alone is worth the price of admission.
Bewitched (2005)
A big bore
It is never a good thing to sit in a theater watching a comedy and hearing no noise -- not laughing, not giggles, not even smiles. I sat and watched this film with about 100 other people in dead silence. The air was still and that could describe the movie -- just still and flat.
I can't say the people involved didn't try, you can tell they did. It just failed. You can see Nicole Kidman working as hard as she can to breathe some life into the film -- alas, to no avail.
I usually can find something good to say about most movies, in this case I really can't. I guess that Kristen Chenoweth and Shirley MacLaine were entertaining, but in the end, wasted in parts that go nowhere.
The Bad Seed (1956)
Can't Turn Away
Once again I found myself watching this film on TCM despite the fact I have seen it numerous times. There are many issues (mentioned by other commentators)that make this film hard to take given today's aesthetic. Yes it is "stagy", yes the acting is mannered, yes the main idea of the film is no longer shocking. Despite all of this you simply can't help but watch.
The performances are truly wonderful. Kelly, McCormack, Jones and Heckart are all exceptional and the fact they and others played this on the stage shines through. They work as a well-oiled machine. Nancy Kelly is very over-the-top in parts but this must be viewed in the context of the style of acting at the time. Further, watch her performance multiple times and pay close attention and I think you will find her reactions are not so far-fetched in the context of the story, as she gradually realizes what her daughter is capable of. I used to think McCormack was too arch, but on further viewings it is clear this is a well thought out performance and very effective, one of the best children's performances I have seen.
Beyond the acting, the film places a question that is very relevant today -- what drives children to commit unspeakable acts -- in a very simplistic setting. The frame work forces the viewer to consider the basic question of why and more importantly how would you react if you came to understand your offspring were evil.
Don't be afraid of the things that make this film out-dated and stylized, instead give it a try and you won't be able to resist watching it again and again.
Guess Who's Coming to Dinner (1967)
Great Ensemble Acting
Though the material is somewhat dated, as indicated by other reviewers, it is surprising how relevant this film still is today. While the manifestation of disapproval may be more guarded I think that the issues raised still resonate.
But for me, the main enjoyment of this movie is not the social message but the acting. Every time I pass this film while channel surfing I have to stop in anticipation of the wonderful interplay between the actors. All of the performances are fine and they really work together as an ensemble. The two highlights for me are Beah Richards' scene in which she scolds Spencer Tracy for being a "burnt out shell of a man". Her forceful delivery and his indignant then contemplative reaction are marvelous. Second is Tracy's final speech to the ensemble which many others have mentioned. It truly is wonderful screen acting; and I defy anyone not to be moved by Katharine Hepburn's reaction to this speech. Though in the scene's background, her profound response is incredibly moving and makes her Oscar win deserving; although this was in no way a terribly demanding role.
For the acting and as a snapshot of a time not so far in the past, highly recommended.