No Reservations (7/10)
posted in Movie Reviews |
Here’s a movie that is 100% what I expected, from start to finish. And that’s OK, cause it at least features an excellent cast that makes the completely predictable plot work.
Writing: If you’ve seen the trailer, you know exactly what to expect from the movie, and what the plot will be. The characters are written fairly obviously, and they interact in the ways you’d pretty much expect. There are some nice character tid-bits tossed in from time to time, and some nice scenes here and there. It’s all pretty harmless fluff, with a few tear-jerking moments when it is needed.
Production: Pretty run-of-the-mill romantic comedy production from start to finish. Much of the production is helped from the somewhat atypical setting of a restaurant kitchen environment. The movie never quite takes full advantage of the setting. At least not to the degree that (criminally overlooked) shows like Kitchen Confidential did.
Cast: Without a doubt, the strongest aspect to this movie is the cast. I’m a big fan of Aaron Eckhart, and it’s great to see him continue to get lead roles. Catherine Zeta-Jones is another talented actor that isn’t in a heck of a lot in recent years. While she doesn’t revolutionize the role she’s given, she pulls it off with remarkable ease. Then we have Abigail Breslin, who has made quite a name for herself recently with her fantastic performance in Little Miss Sunshine and the likes. She’s excellent in this film as well, definitely elevating the role higher than it has a right to be. Her and Eckhart have a remarkable chemistry and repartee on screen.
Music: Philip Glass is an interesting choice for a movie of this genre. While much of it has that distinctly Philip Glass style, he also tones it back a bit from that recognizable style. Overall, it’s a good score that has some rather nice moments.
