baldwinsd10
It is so refreshing to watch a comedy with no slap-stick humor, only clever, funny dialogue. It was a joy to see from the beginning to end. The scriptwriter does not manipulate the audience, he draws them in with a great plot and many twists and turns. The scene in the library was a big surprise, and the ending is totally unexpected. I don't think anyone knew what would be in that suitcase. Bill Murray makes a wonderful appearance as Maurice in the party scene. I had a big chuckle watching him take home all that food! This movie takes you into the private world of struggling actors desperate enough to risk friendships in order to get that big break in their careers. Although it's all tongue in cheek I am willing to surmise the writing is based on true life experience. See it, you won't regret it!
Jim Colucci
I just saw this film in its 2005 re-release. It's really a fun little film, with quite a few laughs and lots of great moments among a really amazing, well-chosen cast.It's so much smarter than the average Hollywood film -- which may have been its problem when released?! Who knows why studios do what they do -- and apparently, they didn't do this film justice in 1998 (after all, it has an ensemble cast where -- gasp -- no one is under 30!)As both a writer and an Italian-American, I got perhaps an extra kick out of the story, which is about survival in Hollywood for these four actor characters and their families -- but the film's humor and theme of friendship is truly universal.
MOE-50
Wonderfully done! I thought I knew each of the characters. One right after another they became more real. It amazes me why films like this don't get more play! It's realism into the world of auditioning breaks your heart! It shows what people with hearts for their work, these actors, have to go through to get a job! Holding on to HOPE which is all you have. Bill Murray's cameo was right on the money! Unlike in Baseball if you're a 300 hitter you're job on a team should be fairly secure. But with acting, as these characters experience, it's a whole different ball game!This movie will definitely make the out of work actor want to throw a brick through the TV. However it also makes you see that family and friends is what life is all about!
TonyMan
This is a very good film about the folks on the lower rung of the movie industry. I agree that David Straithairn does not get all the credit due and he really brings this movie home. The acting all around is good and examines what happens when one person out of a group of friends gets a chance at the big time. Rent this movie for a totally enjoyable 2 hours.
AD
