A Mixed Bag

Rating: Null/10 (26 February 2003)

You know the drill: Christian is a struggling writer who meets the courtesan Satine. They fall in love, but she belongs to the evil Duke.
My two cents: This movie is... frustrating. There are some scenes that are arranged perfectly and deliver real emotional impact (tango to Roxanne comes to mind). Then there are others that make you wonder just what planet Baz Lurhmann is from (the Duke singing Like A Virgin)?
The up and down style works against the movie more than for it. Just when you really start to become emotionally invested in the characters, something so insanely spoofy comes along that it ruins the whole moment. It's like the director couldn't decide whether he wanted to make high drama or Rocky Horror, so he decided to throw in a little of both, and they cancel each other out.
If you're curious as to whether or not to go see this movie: If you like Rocky Horror, Rent or anything else by Baz Lurhmann, this is right up your alley. Otherwise, buy the soundtrack. You'll get all of the music and talent, without the distractions.