Genuine

Rating: Null/10 (24 May 2003)

Annie Hall strikes an emotional chord because it is real. The relationship isn't like some fairy tail where everything gets screwed then comes together nicely. It's a harsh look at life yes but it's always a very funny one. Woody Allen, who rightfully took home Best Director and Best Original Screenplay plays Albie, a nuerotic comedian who just can't seem to enjoy the things in life. He's constantly complaining and delivering these one- liners in such a fast- pace and he also frequently side tracks and talks to the camera. Diane Keaton who also respectfully earned an Oscar plays Annie Hall, a bit of a hyper girl who shares a troubled but special relationship with Albie. They play off each other well, giving a sort of distant yet closeness at the same time. There are some minor funny cameos by Christopher Walken and Shelley Duvall that really add to the substance of the cast. They all come together extremly well and never fumble over their lines. What stands out the most is the rapid- fire script, which never takes a break from Albie's constantly ramblings about death, New York anti- Semitism, his past, etc. etc. It's random at times, funny at times, and heartbreaking at times. But it clicks, it definitely clicks and this alone could drive the film. Allen's direction is a bit too straight forward to be considered on par with the script's brilliance, but it still holds out well and never gives up. It's hard to find flaws in something like Annie Hall, but sometimes the over- the- topness never quite works and the scenes feel a bit strained. After a while it just gets old and you want it to end. However, it's rare that films such as Annie Hall come along and they should be vastly treasured. 9.5/10