REVIEWS: DREAMGIRLS, THE HOLIDAY, THE PURSUIT OF HAPPYNESS

Posted by JOpinionated on January 14, 2007 in Film | 0 comments

Before I get to some quick movie reviews, here is an update from my last blog.

And I still don’t have any Sundance tickets. But I will be in the Wait List line in Park City ugly early on Friday morning, with bells on.

DREAMGIRLS

First of all, Jennifer Hudson is the best thing about this movie. She acts and sings circles around Beyonce, and her performance gave me chills. I love Kelly Clarkson, but Hudson is clearly the most talented artist to emerge from the American Idol experience. The film ran long yet felt rushed; it was obvious when new songs were interjected, which disrupted the overall pace and feel.  Eddie Murphy was surprisingly good in an obvious art-imitating-life role as a hot star whose stock has fallen precipitously over the years. To sum up – it was enjoyable but underwhelming outside of Hudson’s performance. I understand the hype, and have no doubt it will garner a Best Picture nomination (although Hudson deserves an acting nod more than anything).  But I’ll take Chicago or Moulin Rouge any day over this one.

THE HOLIDAY

I love Kate Winslet, so seeing her play a contemporary woman with her normal British accent was a refreshing change. The casting of Jack Black as a romantic lead was an unusual choice, but it worked and it was the first time I’ve ever found him even remotely charming. I’m not a Jude Law or Cameron Diaz fan, but they were tolerable because their roles seem tailored to their strengths: lingering smiles, impossibly perfect hair, physical comedy and flirty dialogue between two people who regularly grace the pages of People Magazine’s Most Beautiful. Guys, this isn’t a chick flick outright; rent it with your wives, girlfriends or boyfriends, and you might be pleasantly surprised.  Written and directed by Nancy Meyers (Something’s Gotta Give, What Women Want).  

THE PURSUIT OF HAPPYNESS

I like Will Smith. Always have. Put simply, this film is the perfect rental. The story and Smith are compelling, and this feel-good movie will likely inspire tears from men and women of all ages.