Undiscovered gem This movie was a big surprise. A friend rented it and then I immediately bought it. If you like quirky movies like "Daddy and Them" you will love this one.
I felt a little embarrassed, but still laughed. There is a sweetness and kindness to Jeff Bridges that makes him completely likeable, no matter what the quality of his character. (Seabisquit revealed it to me.) The viewer gets caught up in the sad solution to Andy's (Bridges) lack of direction. The relationships of the small town inspire and bond the characters (a lot of little weirdos) together. There are scenes that made me cringe, and in one scene where Ted Danson is trying to disprove his gayness, I literally covered my eyes. But there are some distinctly funny moments, mostly delivered by Otis(William Fichtner). If you are looking for a "great" film. This is not your choice. But if you are looking for a funny little film with a twist--you might enjoy this. My husband and I giggled and gave each other incredulous looks through out the movie. Endearing? Poignant? Oh, yea, and don't forget....a little embarrassing.
Loved it! A sweet cinematic confection. Other reviewers have discussed plot, so no need to re-tell the story. The movie very much reminds me of "Cannery Row"...lots of characters, and all of them big-hearted and slightly askew. I enjoyed it immensely.
Confessions of a "Charm" Junkie I confess -- I'll watch ANYTHING that has Billy Fichtner in it.
I also confess to having a real soft-spot for films and plays that are charming - "charm" is a much under-rated quality. We seem to get a lot of "manipulative" and "cloying," but we rarely get to see anyting "charming." This film is charming. It's also clever.
Another review compared it to British film and I concur -- it shares its tone with such sweet Brit films as "Millions" and the light comedies that came out of Ealing after WWII.
Is this a "great" film? Will it go down in the annals of film history? Probably not -- but does it have to? Can't it just be a "good watch"? I found it pleasurable just watching a great cast coalesce into a great ensemble -- celebrity actors working in tandem with non-celebrities for the good of the story.
And, of course, it has Billy Fichtner.
Funny, Poiniant, Merits repeat watching I'm sorry legal obstacles prevented national release of this little gem. Anyone who's ever heard of porn and is not a prude will find this hysterical. Some of the humor is "in your face" but not offensive. Some parts are subtle. Some very touching. I think or hope it will get the attention it deserves and develop a cult following.
Anything Goes Trivia
Trevor
Megaton Man
