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Reviews
Too Big to Fail (2011)
Yes, Goldman's role glossed over; but Rep. Barney Frank & Sen. Chris Dodd's roles were IGNORED!
I agree with many about the ease of understanding, especially when TOPHER GRACE w/ Hurt & Crudup simplify it for Cynthia Nixon (a proxy for us, the American people). Though very strong almost throughout the film, the acting and dialog/banter in this scene is well worth the film's viewing!
There is one more glaring omission/defect in the film, besides Goldman-Sachs larger role; writer Andrew Sorkin and director Chris Hansen leave out the (can't call it criminal, can we?) banking oversight roles of Sen. Chris Dodd & Rep. Barney Frank have in the disaster? The film almost depicts them (w/ Spkr Pelosi) as naive heroes! What were Sorkin and Hansen thinking? Hello - CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTIONS and SWEETHEART DEALS to look the other way? Oh sorry, there was no quid-pro-quo...
Anyone else want that beach-front property in Utah?
The Ugly Truth (2009)
Hilarious throughout -- many/most critics are clueless!
I thought the Hollywood Reporter (or maybe it was the Tulsa critic) that got the basics, at least in part; this romantic COMEDY has a male viewpoint, as opposed to what's been offered for more than a couple of years now in romantic comedies. Quite simply, "the relationship adviser as a crude Alpha Male" premise is a surprise, especially with some defeats, insecurity, caring and polish is weaved into his interactions. He is not a misogynist, nor even a sexist, given his early recognition of Heigl's producer skill and contribution to the show. Perhaps one can't be certain of that, unless you sit through the laughs in entire film...
By and large, other (up tight or elitist?) critics just don't get it! I'm reminded of the 70s, Mr. Mom's role-reversal film premise decades ago -- the critics blew that too. Neither plots were "predictable" except that in such films, it almost always ends well for the main players. But make no mistake, the key plot and broadcast scenes were original and hilarious -- parts reminded me of Mad's old, "TV scenes we'd like to see..."
In our showing, the audience was filled almost entirely with mixed-gender groups, who laughed though out this film. Note: there were few kids as it should be. The plot and dialog were both situationally and language surprising, because we're not used to THE UGLY TRUTH being shown an spoken in it's most basic form.
Finally, we care about the characters. And in spite of the Relationship Alpha Male vs. Business Alpha Female premise, I expect the gender score ended up pretty close overall. Our matinée discount was completely unnecessary; this film was well worth it even at the over $10 full price + our time.
An American Carol (2008)
Starts fast, stalls a bit, then takes off!
After a quick start of laughs (Robert Davi and his pals), then the film slows some as the Dickens' parallel gets set up. When the 1st spirit enters the clever jokes resume and build. After a while, they come so fast while laughing at one, you might miss another.
Neilsen & the kids scenes are hit and miss, while Davi, Grammar, Woods, Hopper, Voight and O'Reilly+Browne scene's are very funny. I found myself liking the Kevin Farley facsimile of the subject documentary director that glues it all together -- for me, a little bit of that real director goes too long. Kevin Zorbo and Trace Atkins are also funny surprises in their roles.
A quick escape at less than 90 minutes, the film delivers with either the topical originality only Zucker and Company could dream up, or with the over-the-top irreverence we fans have come to expect from him. This film is a great distraction vs. the tough reality you must reengage after leaving the theatre. I'm sure I'll have to see it again, to pick up what I missed while laughing the 1st time -- including that in the signature credits.
Swing Vote (2008)
Timely, clever, and a very well cast and acted film!
I really loved this thoughtful and funny movie. The ensemble of characters were very well chosen and delivered on their casting. It is real easy to become cynical in what seems like an interminable election year, but Costner and company walk the fine line with precision -- slamming and appealing to both sides equally.
There were hysterical moments on both sides, particularly on how the pandering for VOTE (not plural) can be taken to the absurd. I found refreshing dignity in both presidential candidates, superbly played by Grammar and Hopper, believable in their discomfort of their handlers instincts (Tucci & Lane's), to win over Costner (and secondarily, Carroll). In some ways, the characters including Patton, Lopez, Reinhold, and Eaton were so strong, the film seems too short when you think how much development they should take (hence my "9").
Finally, I found the ending quite satisfying and just, especially in this election year. And I found myself sympathizing with the climatic sentiments -- question(s) that should be asked of candidates every election (not just this one).
PS- Four of us went, 2 up & 2 down including my 12 year old. We all enjoyed this film, laughing many times in the same places, while the mild civics lessons and voter (ir)responsibilities were not lost on any of us either.
Open Range (2003)
#1 Quigley Down Under, #2 Unforgiven, #3 Open Range -- BUT I WOULDN'T WANT TO LIVE ON THE DIFFERENCE!
Terrific plots, TOP ACTING, with defining heroics vs. despicable villains -- it just doesn't get any better than these films. While I'll grant that male character depth, insight and complexity is greatest in #2 & #3, I do give the slight edge to the simpler right and wrong of Selleck's Quigley (more like Eastwood's "Man With No Name"), paired with San Giacomo's Crazy Cora. But as I said, I wouldn't want to live on the difference.
A film festival of these three would entertain most, while surprising it's viewers upon retrospect that there's little or no overlap. Throw in Dances With Wolves and make it a marathon ...