C: The Contender, The Count of Monte Cristo
D: Dinosaurs
E: Everlasting Piece
CHARLOTTE GRAY (NEUTRAL)
This film benefits from the feel of a Louisa May Alcott or Jane Austin novel, a strong cast, and an experienced director. Gillian Armstrong (OSCAR & LUCINDA and LITTLE WOMEN) directs Cate Blanchett (LORD OF THE RINGS, THE GIFT, THE SHIPPING NEWS, and ELIZABETH) and Billy Crudup (ALMOST FAMOUS, WAKING THE DEAD, and JESUS' SON). Blanchett stars as Charlotte Gray, a young woman who becomes a British spy in hopes of reuniting with her true love, who has been sent to France to fight the Nazis. While in France, her compassion for the Jewish people increases, as does her passion for member of the French resistance, played by Billy Crudup. The chemistry between the two leads and the story in general becomes clouded by the film that tries to do too much. I give the filmmakers credit for exploring an aspect of the Nazis rise to power and the French people's attempt to stop their invasion of France. CHARLOTTE GRAY will have a platform release starting January 18, 2002.
"The Contender" explores what it means to compete in the political arena in this day and age of papparazzi, tabloids, gossip columns, and sex scandals galore (or should I say, in excess!). Director Rod Lurie claims that he wanted to create a film reminiscent of the political dramas of the 1970s, that explores what it was like to be involved with politics more than most modern-day films that parody the political circus. Lurie describes that he was inspired by films like "All the President's Men", "The Candidate" and "The Parallax View" and on many levels he succeeds.
The story revolves around Laine Hanson, Democratic Vice-President candidate, played by Joan Allen ("Nixon", "Pleasantville", "Tucker: The Man and His Dream", and "Searching for Bobby Fischer"). The mystery surrounding her stand-by-your-principles character is both intriguing and saddening, since her experiences reflect the current antagonist and machiavellian tactics practiced by opposing politicians and the media to attract attention to anything but the issues that should be on-hand. Allen's performance will probably be recognized by the Academy both for her performance and for the timeliness of the character she portrays.
The President, played by Jeff Bridges (who also starred opposite Allen in "Tucker: The Man and His Dream" and is also known for his performances in numerous other films such as: "The Last Picture Show", "Starman", "The Fisher King", "The Fabulous Baker Boys", "Jagged Edge", "Fearless", "The Big Lebowski", and "Against All Odds"), initially decides to nominate Allen's character because he thinks she will be the most loyal to his political platform; however, his opinion of Laine Hanson and his decision evolves as the plot unfolds. Bridges demonstrates his comic and dramatic ability in his portrayal of the constantly eating President Jackson Evans.
Gary Oldman wears two hats in this production, acting as both the Executive Producer, and cast as Shelly Runyon, the antagonist to both the President and the suggested Vice-President, Hanson. His character is probably the most complicated of the cast since it is never quite clear if his grueling grilling of Hanson in front of the Senate Committee, is based on malice or sincere ethics. The other actors barely recognized Oldman during the first dress rehearsal. His performance demonstrates his ability to play a variety of characters with conviction. (Oldman has also appeared as Sid in "Sid & Nancy" , "Prick up Your Ears", as Dracula in "Bram Stoker's Dracula", and "The Scarlet Letter"). He may also join Allen in Oscar and/or Golden Globe contention.
One of strengths of "The Contender" is the acting done by the entire ensemble. The cast of characters also includes many other talented screen and stage actors: Hollywood bad boy, Christian Slater as the ambivalent young Senator Reginald Webster (who starred opposite Bridges and Allen in "Tucker", along with Oldman in "Murder in the First", "True Romance", "Untamed Heart", "Pump Up the Volume" and one of my favorites, "Heathers"-- a sequel to "Heathers" is scheduled in the near future); Sam Elliot as the President's advisor, Kermit Newman (who starred along side of Bridges in "The Big Lebowski", and appeared in "Mask", Gettysburg", "The Quick and the Dead", and "Tombstone") ; Saul Rubinek as another Cabinet member, Jerry Toliver (a familiar face on "Frasier", along with Allen in "Nixon", alongside Slater in "True Romance", along with Bridges in "Against All Odds", "Unforgiven", and "Sweet Liberty"); William Petersen as the popular other possible Contender, Jack Hathaway ("To Live and Die in LA", "Manhunter, and "Cousins"); and Phillip Baker Hall as Oscar Billings ("The Insider", "Magnolia", "The Talented Mr. Ripley", "The Truman Show", "Boogie Nights" and "Say Anything").
Another strength of "The Contender", in my opinion, is the depth by which the Writer/Director, Rod Lurie, explores modern-day politics and the politics of politics. Lurie is fairly new to the production scene although he has been a participant in the film arena for some time now. In contrast to many other directors, Lurie started out in a profession hated by many filmmakers, as a critic and reporter. He has worked for such publications as NEW YORK DAILY NEWS, PREMIERE, MOVIELINE, ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY, and KABC Radio in LA. Although the film is a bit longer than probably need be, Lurie does an excellent job of creating suspense and bringing out the best performances from his cast. Also to his credit, he tells a story that is critical without being overly cynical, insightful without being righteous, and thoughtful without being overly argumentative. Lurie's script features complicated and realistic characters that will invoke sympathy from both parties (Democratic and Republican).
I will not say that this film is for everyone, however, I will say that it provides a refreshingly thought-provoking film from mainstream Hollywood. If you enjoy political films and character-driven narratives, you will probably appreciate what "The Contender" has to offer. The film's analytical nature and talented cast will probably make the film an Oscar contender. However, stylistically the film does not offer anything ground-breaking. The film does have graphic sex scenes and images, so you may not want to bring your kids, if you have any. "The Contender" will open wide on October 13th and will also be featured prior to a tribute to Joan Allen at this year's Mill Valley Film Festival. For more about the schedule of films and events at the Mill Valley Film Festival, go to http://www.mvff.org.
Have you seen the corny trailers and ad campaign that make you want to pass on this film? "Count of Adventure! Count of Excitement! Count of Revenge!"- Count on making me hurl... Well, I did not get what I was counting on, instead I was pleasantly surprised. I was expecting a schmaltzy, melodramatic film filled with corny romance and farcical fencing routines. Instead, I enjoyed a film that was indeed very clear on right versus wrong, but in a manner that modern movie-going audiences could appreciate. Although the love story is a little melodramatic, the fine acting makes the emotions so real, that I found myself rooting for the two lovers to reunite. Surprisingly, I found the duels as exciting to watch as any other fight scene in other action films.
Not only does Director Kevin Reynolds integrates some exciting dueling action sequences, he also brings out the best performances from his actors. Reynolds (ROBIN HOOD: PRINCE OF THIEVES, WATERWORLD, and 187) sits at the helm of this romantic adventure starring Jim Caviezel (THE THIN RED LINE, FREQUENCY, PAY IT FORWARD, and ANGEL EYES), Guy Pearce (PRISCILLA, QUEEN OF THE DESERT; L.A. CONFIDENTIAL, RULES OF ENGAGEMENT, and MEMENTO)., Richard Harris (THE MOLLY MACQUIRES, PATRIOT GAMES, UNFORGIVEN, CRY THE BELOVED COUNTRY, THE FIELD, and HARRY POTTER AND THE SORCERER'S STONE), and Dagmara Dominczyk (ROCK STAR and THEY). Harris and Dominczyk both give convincing performances in their supporting roles; however, Caviezel and Pearce steal the show. Caviezel is powerful and mesmerizing as the wronged Edmond Dantes. Pearce continues to prove that he is a versatile and consummate actor as Edmond's friend and foe, Fernand Mondego.
Caviezel plays Edmond Dantes, a man who learns lessons about love, friendship, and betrayal the hard way. Pearce plays his childhood friend, Fernand Mondego, who becomes his nemesis during adulthood, due to jealousy, class conflict and contempt. Fernand wants whatever he does not have, even though he possess a lot of material wealth. Edmond, on the other hand, finds happiness despite what little he has, until Fernand and some other fiends plot to rob Edmond of his dignity, happiness, and freedom. As a result, wrath consumes Edmond and poses as a threat to rob him again of any chance of regaining his happiness. The film follows Edmond's life over a sixteen year period as he evolves from an innocent to an avenger. The question becomes: will he be able to have his cake and eat it too?...
In addition to the fine acting, the costumes by Tom Rand (THE FRENCH LIEUTENANT'S WOMAN) and production design by Mark Geraghty (THE SNAPPER, INTO THE WEST, MY LEFT FOOT, and THE COMMITMENTS) transport the audience to eighteenth century France. The location scout also did a remarkable job of finding settings (Ireland and Malta) that are as captivating as the narrative and performances.
THE COUNT OF MONTE CRISTO opens wide starting January 25, 2002. If you do not mind a film that clearly defines good versus evil and presents a moral to its story, then you will not find this story corny or dated. If you like fine scenery and well choreographed action, then you will appreciate what this film has too offer. Fans will love seeing Pearce and Caviezel generate sparks and friction; and those who have not seen either actor before, will become fans. Due to the scenery and action sequences, I would recommend seeing the film on the big screen.
Bob Giraldi directs an ensemble cast of familiar faces but not a lot of household names in DINNER RUSH. Most of cast have spent their careers to date in supporting roles so DINNER RUSH gives them the opportunity to strut their stuff as primary characters, even though no one character stands out as the traditional lead. Danny Aiello (DO THE RIGHT THING, CITY HALL, MOONSTRUCK and READY TO WEAR) receives first billing and is the most recognizable of names and much of the story revolves around his character.
Aiello plays a restaurant owner who moonlights as a quasi-mobster, placing bets for future members of gamblers' anonymous. His character wants to go straight, but for various reasons involving the other characters, he finds going straight more challenging than anticipated. The other cast members who join him at the restaurant and on screen include: Edoardo Ballerini (TWISTED FATE, THE LAST DAYS OF DISCO, ROMEO MUST DIE), Vivian Wu (THE LAST EMPEROR and THE JOY LUCK CLUB), Mike McGlone (THE BROTHERS MCMULLEN and SHE'S THE ONE), Kirk Acevedo (THE THIN RED LINE and BAIT), Sandra Bernhard (television's ROSEANNE, ALLY MCBEAL, and CHICAGO HOPE, as well as her own stage comedy performances), John Corbett (television's NORTHERN EXPOSURE and SEX AND THE CITY), Summer Phoenix (RUSSKIES and THE FACULTY), and Polly Draper (THE TIC CODE, and television's CHICAGO HOPE, and THIRTYSOMETHING).
The director, Giraldi is one of the founders of StarChefs.com, a website featuring leading chefs and cookbook authors. He also co-owns ten trendy and successful restaurants in New York, which may account for the realism that exists in the film. As a restaurant connoisseur, Giraldi puts the actors at ease with each other on-screen and makes the audience feel right at home in the theater. The camera work and editing interweave the various characters lives together so fluidly, that the audience becomes a fly on the wall (although there would never be a fly on the wall or in another other area of such a posh restaurant). The gritty look generated by the lighting and film stock give the film a documentary feel that heightens the realism. The character development, acting, and dialogue also contribute to the realistic feel of the film.
Although not a lot happens in the film, the viewing experience is far from boring. DINNER RUSH is a delightful film to watch similar to BIG NIGHT, but this film replaces the comedy with suspense due to the mafia element. However, like BIG NIGHT, we the audience feel like participants in the dining experience since the majority of the film revolves around a four hour block, a.k.a, the dinner rush. Unlike a lot of the films that would be described as suspenseful, DINNER RUSH hides its thriller element until the last minute. We know that something is going to happen, but it is not clear what, which makes the moment that much more climatic when it does occur. It is worth noting that there is some violence in this film (two scenes and about three minutes of screen time), but the violence is very slight considering its narrative impact. DINNER RUSH opens in a platform release starting December 28th. This film would be equally enjoyable on video.
Disney's "Dinosaurs" presents an innovative blend of live action and animation. In common with many other products with pioneering technology, there is more flash than substance. The narrative is secondary to the special effects. The story follows a somewhat mismatched group of dinosaurs and a family of lemurs as they struggle to survive in their changing environment. "Dinosaurs" contains the standard Disney positive family value message and overall happy ending. Although I do think that the film offers some positive messages to children about tolerance, compassion, and determination; I think this film is too scary for children under the age of eight. I would, however, recommend this film to viewers over the age of eight, simply for the visuals and supporting sound track. The visual effects in this film are truly awesome. The Disney artists did an excellent job of layering the computer animation on top of exotic filmed backgrounds. If you do see this film, see it on the big screen and try to sit in the center of the theater for the full effect. "Dinosaurs" opens May 19th in theaters everywhere.
AN EVERLASTING PIECE (neutral/plus)
Barry Levinson directs. Barry McEvoy writes and stars. Layeredstory: comic and tragic. Politically correct entrepreneurialhairpiece venture with sociopolitical strife in Belfast as backdrop.Hilarious moments. Ending too P.C.
"An Everlasting Piece" has a lot more to offer than what wouldinitially meet the eye. Many will probably flock to see this film,expecting to see a wry human drama set in the city of Baltimore. Despite the fact that Barry Levinson brings his directing (andproducing) talents to "An Everlasting Piece", the storylinecontrasts his other projects. "An Everlasting Piece" has amulti-layered storyline. On the surface, the film is a comedy abouttwo young entrepreneurs who devise a get rich quick scheme to selltoupees in Northern Ireland. On a deeper level, the film exploresthe sociopolitical strife that existed in Belfast in the 1980sbetween the different religions (Protestant and Catholic) and nations(British and Irish).
Barry McEvoy ("Gloria" and "Gettysburg") plays the film's maincharacter, Colm, the visionary of the entrepreneurial venture. McEvoyalso writes the screenplay in what appears to be an argument forpeace in the tumultuous region. The balance of humor and politicalcommentary attracted the talented, A-list director Levinson ("RainMan", "Bugsy", "Diner", "Avalon", "The Natural", "Tin Men", "DonnieBrasco", and television's HOMOCIDE) and some of his long timecollaborating producers Mark Johnson ("Diner", "Rain Man", "Bugsy","The Natural" and "Avalon") and Louis DiGiaimo ("Rain Man", "TinMen", and "Donnie Brasco"). Also on board the producers team isPaula Weinstein, Levinson's business partner for Baltimore/SpringCreek Productions ("The Perfect Storm", "Analyze This", and "LibertyHeights").
McEvoy succeeds in creating a story that is meaningful andhumorous. The film hosts some truly hilarious moments. "AnEverlasting Piece" also has scenes that are profound and somewhatdisturbing. Even though the cast does an excellent job of deliveringthe funny lines and bringing to life the drama and comedy, the film'sending lessens the impact. The strength of "An Everlasting Piece"through 80% of the film was its story that educated without judgment.Unfortunately, the film's tone changes dramatically and abruptly,making the ending seem somewhat contrived/artificial/unsettled andunbelievable/implausible.
"An Everlasting Piece" is worth seeing for the humor and politicalcommentary. McEvoy sets out with an ambitious mission to make apolitically correct film without beating the audience over the headwith a political message. However, his ambitions may not have beenrealistic since the ending hits the audience over the head with anoverly peacey moral. It is unfortunate that the momentum that thefilm starts with, does not exist throughout the entire film. I dothink that McEvoy has tremendous potential to become a prominentwriter due to his ability to create and develop realistic characters,and his talent for balancing comedy with tragedy. "An EverlastingPiece" will have a platform release starting December 29th. Thisfilm would be equally enjoyable on video.