Snow Day Review
by Ross Anthony (ross AT rossanthony DOT com)February 6th, 2000
School's Better
Snowday
By Ross Anthony
Growing up in the north, I, too, longed for that prized announcement over the early morning radio, "SNOWDAY, Schools are closed!!!" In its attempt to recreate the elation a blizzard brings to children, "Snowday" slips and slides all over itself.
Fundamentally a formula family picture, "Snowday" adds little to the four story lines it borrows from countless other pictures. Each conflict resolving wholesomely, but with little power.
In the primary saga, the teen son (Mark Webber) chases a beauty out of his league while ignoring gal-pal Schuyler Fisk. A few endearingly unique moments grace this tale, but for the most part, it evolves just as expected.
Next, the boy's little sister must conquer her demon -- the evil snowplow man. Not only will he "steal" a second snowday by clearing the streets, but he delights in mowing towards blissfully sledding children. The chains on his tires are said to be made from "the braces of kids that didn't get out of his way."
Thirdly, mom is a workaholic who ignores her family's needs. This plot line pains viewers as she tends to the phone while family chaos ensues.
Lastly, dad Chevy Chase plays the town's second best weatherman. In order to be free of gimmicky costumes meant to maintain his ratings, Chase must snatch top guy status from his super slick rival. Chase's charm keeps this subplot above ice water.
Strong music wisps with the magic of "E.T." and "Close Encounters" desperately trying to make a snowman from this slush. But the visuals and story, like it's poster, feel quickly cut out and pasted together by busy people with other things on their minds.
Snowday. Copyright © 2000. Rated R.
Starring Mark Webber, Zena Grey, Schuyler Fisk, Emmanuelle Chriqui, Chevy Chase, Chris Elliot, Jean Smart, Connor Matheus.
Directed by Chris Koch.
Written by Will McRobb, Chris Viscardi.
Produced by Julia Pistor, Albie Hecht at Paramount/Nickelodeon.
Grade..........................C+
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Copyright © 2000. Ross Anthony, currently based in Los Angeles, has scripted and shot documentaries, music videos, and shorts in 35 countries across North America, Europe, Africa and Asia. For more reviews visit:
http://RossAnthony.com
Originally posted in the rec.arts.movies.reviews newsgroup. Copyright belongs to original author unless otherwise stated. We take no responsibilities nor do we endorse the contents of this review.
