Townspeople’s lives begin to change under the influence of a woman who opens a small chocolaterie in a repressed French village. Beautiful production values and sophisticated score highlight this engrossing fairy tale come to life. Additionally the superlative performances by the cast go a long way into making this film so enchanting. Occasionally the script’s negative view of religion as a means to manipulate people’s behavior, can be a bit strident. However, more often than not, the story is a delightful confection that will make you smile.
Archive for 2000
Chocolat
Posted in Comedy, Drama, Romance with tags 2000 on December 14, 2009 by Mark HobinPollock
Posted in Biography, Drama with tags 2000 on February 24, 2009 by Mark Hobin
Curiously uninvolving biography of the revolutionary American painter. Does not delve deeply enough into the man. Instead we get standard snapshots of the life of a troubled artist. He is difficult, demanding, and alcoholic, everything we expect an artist to be. Marcia Gay Harden, however, is memorable as Lee Krasner, Pollock’s wife and influential painter in her own right. Her character gives the movie much needed structure and dramatic heft.
Chuck & Buck
Posted in Comedy, Drama with tags 2000 on January 18, 2009 by Mark Hobin
Odd, unsettling comedy-drama about a man who continues to have an obsession over his childhood friend. Writer and star, Mike White, is unnerving as Buck, a childlike, lollipop-sucking, 27 year old stalker that you won’t soon forget. At once, humorous, tender, scary and pathetic. The film masterfully juggles all of these tones and it’s difficult to categorize. Unique and memorable.
Fast Film Reviews 