Fair at Best

Rating: 7/10 (16 January 2002)

Perhaps I expected too much going into this film after hearing only praise for its director, actors and subject, but all in all it really wasn't that great. Do you recall a film from a couple of years back about a genius pianist who overcomes great odds and is once again accepted into society? The film was "Shine". Call this one "Shine Pt. 2". Another Hollywood piece of pretentious claptrap that will win all kinds of awards at Oscar time and p*** off real artists like me who can only have the safe haven of the internet for any of their visions and wisdom. People were leaving the theater saying "now that's the kind of film I'd see again." - I had to roll my eyes at them and at the same time think how "safe" it is for some to see it on the screen, while the same type of people are the ones who would make fun of the crazy professor who talks to imaginary people and walks funny. Bunch of hypocrites. Pay close attention to the hankerchief and the pens, never saw that coming! Grade - C. 7 out of 10. Jennifer Connelly and Crowe do a pretty good job, but couldn't save it for me. See it once, if you the film is great, at least try and empathize as well, that's all I ask.