“Music and Lyrics” –
Hugh Grant, Drew Barrymore
Loved it! Grant and Barrymore are a delightful duet, and both know their best vehicle well, a light romantic comedy. Grant has always been good at playing has beens and this is no exception. It was frighteningly funny to realize that this was inspired by the true story of the Brit hit music group from the 80’s POP. I didn’t remember them at all, but evidently quite a few do and more now, no doubt. I got a real kick out of the rock star Cara as she appeared to be a definite Madonna take off with her East Indian mysticism take on the bump and grind. There is nothing as absurd as reality. Barrymore is perfect as the slightly dizzy plant gal substitute that works for her sister’s weight loss clinic (her sister being a generously portioned lady and a big fan of POP.) Beyond the veneer of dizzy is a young woman of depth and character just waiting for her partner to catch up. She is supportive and encouraging when Grant’s character needs it most and he learns the value of being real and baring it all. Very fun, a bit campy, and with an ahhhhh ending.
“The Fountain” –
Hugh Jackman, Rachel Weisz, Ellen Burstyn
Well this was tragic start to finish. I’m not entirely sure what is was about, but think it was the quest for the fountain of youth, that then morphed into a search for a cure for death. I think I prefer Jackman in lighter roles, he carries them better. Weisz is just so beautiful and airy to look at on screen, she kind of glows. Burstyn looked well and deserved a meatier role had there been one. The weaving of different periods, the frantic searching and chasing almost seemed like “The Secret” in places. I didn’t understand why the entire movie was filmed at night and the hospital was so dark, I know it was done for effect, but I kept wanting to turn the lights on!
