A father makes a deal with the DEA and works undercover to save his son. This attempt at gritty drama is hampered with a trite script and a lost cast including a strange choice of lead. The result is reasonably compelling though suffering with a weak final act.
Tag: Susan Sarandon
The Witches of Eastwick (1987, dir. George Miller)
Three friends accidentally conjure a priapic demon. Fun loose adaptation of the John Updike novel, offering four meaty roles for enthusiastic players. Nicholson is controlled, all are having fine time, and Miller’s direction is elegant throughout. A good job done all around.
The Jesus Rolls (2019, dir. John Turturro)
Two petty criminals and a hairdresser go on a road trip/crime spree. An odd project – a US remake of Bertrand Blier’s Les Valseuses/Going Places retooled for Turturro’s Quintana character from the Coens’ The Big Lebowski – that inevitably feels like fan fiction. Some minor pleasures along the way; the actors seem to be having fun.
The Company You Keep (2012, dir. Robert Redford)
A long-underground former radical has to go on the run when his new identity is revealed. Well-made, intelligent political thriller with a cast of character actors to die for. A little low-key for some, maybe, but this is a movie that delivers well on its own terms. Recommended.
Enchanted (2007, dir. Kevin Lima)
A fairytale princess is magically transported to present-day New York. Excellent musical rom-com which satirises and celebrates Disney animated fairy stories at the same time. Lots to enjoy: great songs, fine performances, a keen sense of self-awareness, and no little affection for its subjects.
255 Review 