LEGALLY BLONDE (2001)

I really don't know what to make of LEGALLY BLONDE (2001). This comedic chick flick (is it okay to call it that ladies?) starring the aptly cast Reese Witherspoon came on cable the other day and, let's keep this between us, I watched it. One of the reasons I sat through it was because of this semi-rave from Lisa Alspector (a former film critic at the Chicago Reader). I've mentioned the Chicago Reader's film section a few times and that's because I'm a big fan of their main critic (Jonathan Rosenbaum). But I also like their other critics though Alspector was a bit quirky, or tough to decipher. I remember, at first, disliking her capsule reviews because while they were packed with great detail and info, it was a bit ambiguous whether or not she panned or recommended the film. But then I began to respect her capsule reviews and conclude that she most likely felt the reader could determine if the film was for them or not. And she was a bit more emphatic in her raves.

One of which is LEGALLY BLONDE (I think, lol). I must say I enjoyed the movie and found parts of it quite hilarious. On the other hand, the story and (mainly) the plot were at times down right, for lack of a better term, incredibly dumb. The defense case Witherspoon's character works on in the final act is not only strangely dumbed down, but also a bit glib. And I would say the same about the ultra happy ending. But I can see how this movie is a crowd pleaser and while I may not be as emphatic about it as Alspector, I'd recommend it to people who were already interested in it (yes, a truly robust recommendation). The movie's messages of Rocky-like persistance and triumph, and of not judging a book by its cover no matter how shiny, are great morals and fun to watch. That Witherspoon's Elle Woods chooses what is important to her over the paternalistic stereotype of holding on to a selfish Ken doll is also fun to watch. And while this is only pop feminism (or simply a semblance of it) it will definitely give you a good chuckle or three; it's not a bad way to spend a lazy afternoon.

LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE (2006)

Going in I was expecting a quirky masterpiece. And while it didn't live up to my incredibly high expectations, this film is truly worth the price of admission.

LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE (2006)

Rating: ****1/2 out of 5

What’s not to like in this gem of a film about an idiosyncratic, semi-dysfunctional family that ventures on a road trip. The baby of the family, 7 year-old Olive (Abigail Breslin), wins a shot at a regional children’s beauty pageant, and soon the entire family jumps into the VW Bus. While the screenplay is deftly written (especially for a debut), it is the outstanding cast that steals the show. Anchored by Breslin, who is remarkable as Olive, the cast portrays the dynamic, hot-and-cold relationships that are forged on the anvil of family. While the film may be a little light in some parts, there are poignant moments of real, visceral emotion. As Olive’s parents, Toni Collette and Greg Kinnear give wonderful performances; in my opinion both are underrated actors. Kinnear fluidly adds nuance to his caricature-like character when the screenplay calls for it. Collette brings life to a stressed out mom doing her best to keep her flock together. Steve Carell, a comedic genius as we all are aware, shows some major dramatic chops as Olive’s uncle. All in all, an enchanting film with a singular appreciation for what it means to be a family. Not to be missed.