Rating of
4/4
A gift to film lovers everywhere
newmans_own - wrote on 02/25/08
This is Gondry’s most mainstream production by far. The visual styling that made his previous films, particularly ETERNAL SUNSHINE OF THE SPOTLESS MIND and THE SCIENCE OF SLEEP, so distinctive is relegated to a few brief sections in the middle of the film and the end. But where there is less visual experimentation, there is a greater emphasis on storytelling. The film’s plot, especially in its second half, flirts with clichés but sidesteps them with its honesty and unabashed sentimentalism. It wisely goes beyond the mere premise of two guys remaking famous films, though the recreations are extremely funny. Black and Def’s version of GHOSTBUSTERS and DRIVING MISS DAISY in particular are pitch-perfect homages to everyone who reenacted their favorite films in their basements.
BE KIND REWIND is made for people who believe in the power movies can hold over a culture. Midway through the film, a discussion between three main characters about THE LION KING soon includes everyone that surrounds them; for a few brief moments, people of all walks of life are united. And as the finale shows, when enough heart is poured into a film, its reach can be endless. BE KIND REWIND has that heart and isn’t afraid to show it.
****/****
Full review at http://newmanscorner.blogspot.com
