Rating of
2/4
Needed More Edge
Franz Patrick - wrote on 11/02/08
This picture reminded me a whole lot of “Margot at the Wedding” because they are both dark comedies with unrealized potential. There were definitely some exciting parts, such as when Chris Cooper decides and acts upon killing Patricia Clarkson, but at the same time the movie is slowed down by the romance between Pierce Brosnan and Rachel McAdams. I almost hate saying that this film is mediocre because the acting here is solid and multilayered, especially from McAdams. She lights up the screen whenever she’s in a scene which reminded me of movie stars from the 1950’s. I think I would’ve cared more about the characters if the connections between them are a lot stronger. Instead, I wanted some of the characters to suffer because of their selfishness and stupidity. I admired the film’s fusion of marriage drama and noir, which definitely summons Woody Allen’s “Match Point” but a much weaker version. I did like the film’s theme of whether it’s right to build a life of happiness on someone else’s misery. Like a well-writter paper, there were several scenes that support each side. I think if this film would’ve pushed itself a bit further like toning down the barely explored romantic angle between Brosnan and McAdams, this would have been a leaner and meaner picture. I also would’ve liked to see the true strength of Brosnan and Cooper’s friendship. Overall, this is a slow picture but isn’t necessarily a bad one. I’d recommend it to those who are craving something a little different but still somewhat mainstream.
