I think Stephen Frears is a great director. One of the best modern directors in fact. I love My Beautiful Laundrette, Sammy and Rosie Get Laid, The Grifters, High Fidelity, Mrs. Henderson Presents, and The Queen. I watched Dirty Pretty Things when it first came out ten years ago and remember not liking it as much as everyone else. I had arguments at the video store over its merit. I felt for a long time I needed to give this film a second chance. So tonight I finally sat down and tried to get through it. I couldn’t. The pacing is too slow and there’s something artificial about the characters. I normally love Audrey Tautou, but she’s trying too hard in this film. Nothing really gels for me. I tried. A 2 out of 5. I’ve got Frears’ Tamara Drewe in my queue. I’ll try that next. Or I’ll have a Stephen Frears’ marathon and watch Mrs. Henderson Presents, The Queen, and High Fidelity all in one weekend.
January 26, 2013 at 12:36 am |
Here’s what I wrote about Tamara Drewes:”Do you need a romcom that won’t bore you to sleep? Stephen Frears provides the perfect little gem”.
Here’s the complete post: http://www.unclebarb.com/content/tamara-drewes (and yes I mention Dirty Pretty Things as a favorite)
Enjoy!
January 26, 2013 at 12:56 am |
Thanks.