Lillie Meredith
The Efficiency Expert is a very average film, and had much potential. However, it did not meet up to what it could have been. A feel good comedy, which stirs a warm feeling in the beginning, but rather boring as it progresses. Several well known actors star in this film, Anthony Hopkins, Russell Crowe, Ben Mendelson, and Toni Collette, which is possibly enough to stir an interest in this movie. But it can be assured, your attention may drift, and it would not be worth your time.It's not that difficult to understand because it is Australian, but just hard to keep your eyes open. Using several tropes and following two characters, it was easy to follow but rather a bore. The acting was good, the dialogue was fine. However, it was hard to take a liking to any of the main characters, Mr Wallace or Carey, the visual aesthetic was nothing special, and the plot was remarkably weak. The meaning of the film, is relevant in society, but it did not have impact. The tropes on love and decisions made the film predictable. The film had potential, but could have been a lot stronger. I would not recommend to anyone unless someone has some time and are okay with being bored a little, or is eager to see a average Aussie movie with some familiar names.
Steve Skafte
Mark Joffe started out directing television, as well as horror and action films of rather questionable quality. This is the first of four films he has directed of very much the same tone, which is to say - dramatic comedies with multiple main characters, all of which are slightly eccentric. Those other three films are "Cosi" (1996), "The MatchMaker" (1997), and "The Man Who Sued God" (2001). This film is probably the one with the most depth. Characters here have moments of such true comedic and dramatic expression. Even the strangest of the bunch seem like real humans.Anthony Hopkins is the real unexpected pleasure here. You rarely see him in comedies. Actually, I can't remember ever seeing him in a comedy before now. Certain passages in "The World's Fastest Indian" is about the closest it gets. There's a number of minor roles filled by some of my favorite actors. New Zealander actor Bruno Lawrence is always a pleasure to see. A young Toni Collette, Russell Crowe and Ben Mendelsohn are fascinating so early in their respective careers.On the whole, "The Efficiency Expert" (the title I saw it under) is a light film. But it's the commitment to acting talent and dramatic truth that gives it a little more guts. I'm glad I saw it.
hayj_froggy99
This movie, Spotswood (aka The Efficiency Expert) is a good movie. I can't say less or more on that one. I could say this gave a "boost" for one or more actors and actresses in this film. Russell Crowe (Gladiator, LA Confidential) played a quite different role as a snobbish two-faced brat, Kim Barry. Hopkins portrayed Mr. Wallace, and doesn't have quite the dialogue of Silence of the Lambs, but more facial expressions than words.You will not regret watching this movie! Believe me. This happens to have a very excellent story line. I do believe though, that if this were a book, it would have been a bit better, since there was so much in the film that could have been described more accurately than in the movie.Please take the time to sit down and watch this film. You never know- you could enjoy it!
ktmphd
Who knew Hannibal Lector could be so subtly funny and filled with pathos. Hopkns turns in a marvelous role of the efficiency consultant who thinks nothing of recommending that half a work force be fired for better profits. Then he visits a down and out shoe company and meets his match in the Mendelshohn and Kurts characters and the rest of their workmates. Indeed, Kurts steals the film as the owner who lives back then and hopes that his efficiency expert can get him and his factory into the modern era, but does not expect it to be as brutal and painful as it is.Kudos to all. If you want a droll comedy that gives remarkable insight into the human dilemma, rent this. You will not regret it. In closing, pay close attention to how Hopkins portrays a plethora of emotions with only his facial and non verbal reactions. He is a genius!
AD
