Burn After Reading

4 out of 5 Stars
I almost didn't see this film, due to the fact that the preview made it appear as a some what light-hearted slap stick romp through Washington D.C. But I was so pleasantly surprised by just how entertaining, quirky, clever, and funny this film turned out to be. And it *is* funny, 'laugh-out-loud' in the movie theater funny', just not in an annoying slap stick immature type of way. No, it's wry, it's at times very dark, it's fast paced, sharply edited, and has a spark to it which I haven't seen in a Coen Brothers' film since 'Fargo'. My only criticism is that I thought Tilda Swinton was miscast. I felt as though she was playing her role as though she were in a completely different type of film. Unlike the other lead actors, who handled the dark comedy material in an amusing-not too serious-but I'm playing it realistic - type way, Swinton seemed to miss the beats and was bringing her classical British acting experience to a film that would have better off with someone more adept at Coen Brothers comedy. Someone like Catherine Keener would have been better suited. Bonus points for Richard Jenkins' performance. He's now 2 for 2 this year (this film and 'The Visitor').

The Visitor

2 out of 5 Stars
I was so disappointed by this film. The plot synopsis was something that appealed to me and from the preview it looked like it would be a well done film. Alas, I laughed out loud several times at just how cliched the script was. Immigrants are treated poorly in America! New Yorkers are racist towards Muslims! "Give Me Your Tired Your Poor" is written on the Statue of Liberty so let's devote a long sequence to riding the Staten Island Ferry! Let's make comparisons to Ellis Island! And let's throw in a random and bizarre love interest for no apparent reason. I do agree with what this movie preaches. But as a film it lacked substance and quality -- it didn't show me anything new or teach me anything I didn't already know. It didn't make me *feel* anything, except maybe embarrassed at times for how the script needed several more rewrites. Still, what saved an otherwise 'cringeful' movie from being completely a waste was the amazing performance given by Richard Jenkins. He was honest and heartfelt and broken and even though at times I questioned just *why* his character would allow all of this unnecessary drama in his life, his dead pan expressions and the look of pain he concealed in his eyes had me completely riveted. Not a great film, but worth a viewing if only to see Jenkins' performance.