The Majestic Review
by Eirik Dahle Pedersen (ayric AT frisurf DOT no)January 7th, 2002
The Majestic (2001) 9/10
USA 2001 - 152 mins - Directed by Frank Darabont
Cast includes: Jim Carrey, Laurie Holden, Martin Landau, Bruce Campbell
Reviewed by EIRIK DAHLE PEDERSEN
The Majestic was alongside Ali the film I had been looking the most forward to this year. Frank Darabont directing Jim Carrey could never go wrong. The buzz after some pre-screenings has shown the opposite, so I went into the theatre not expecting too much. Fortunately, the buzz missed the mark.
This is not the best movie of the year, but it's not far behind. It requires an open mind, as there are a few aspects of the film one can dislike if one really wants to. With an open mind, it is a refreshingly sweet story with quite a bit of sentiment to it. It praises the cinema and it praises the good of man. The word "capraesque" has been used a lot about this movie, as I agree it should have. The film does reflect Frank Capra's work, and it captures the Capra spirit. I believe the use of "capraesque" may have worked against the movie, though. Many Capra fans will dislike this film just because some have dared comparing a modern film with the master.
The film also deals with patriotism in a more subtle and acceptable manner than what we are used to lately. It includes a witch-hunt for communists and does so with a modern, politically correct view, which may be unsettling for some overly patriotic Americans. This part of the film takes part mostly in the last hour, and I think the film might have been even better if this had been substituted with something else, but it is still a very good choice.
Jim Carrey is spectacular as the man given the chance of beginning all over again. This is a fascinating thought, and Carrey interacts with it perfectly. His role is not better than Russell Crowe's (A Beautiful Mind) but if there were any justice in the world, he would at least finally win his nomination. However, I think Jim Carrey, as well as I, has given up on that hope after him being ripped off twice already.
It is also a joy to see the classical beauty Laurie Holden. She has the grace of a 50's movie star and is the perfect choice.
I think that many will dislike this film but more will love it. It sure feels great to let yourself go to an emotional film like this.
Rating: 9/10
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Eirik Dahle Pedersen
mailto:[email protected]
http://communities.msn.com/CriticsCinemaParadiso/
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