Far from lowly, this film is one of Allen's best efforts, with a great cast, story, and music

Rating: 10/10 (12 June 2008)

Back in the 1920's and 30's, the fictitious Emmet Ray (Sean Penn) was a superlative guitarist, second only to the great Django Reinhardt. His rise to eventual fame, however, was rocky, due to his gigantic ego and eccentricities. Apart from drinking a bit too much and being a no-show at engagements he was committed to play, Emmet also believed in the love 'em and leave 'em philosophy. But, when Emmet felt the world closing in on him, he just headed off to the nearest dump to shoot rats or went to a railroad yard to watch the locomotives. One day, Emmet and a fellow musician court two ladies on a New Jersey boardwalk. After a flip of a coin, Emmet is saddled with Hattie (Samantha Morton) a mute laundress who can nevertheless hear. She soon becomes smitten with Emmet, so much so that even he can't help but bask in her never ceasing attention. After a gig ends, Emmet and Hattie head to Hollywood so Ray can pursue a career in movie soundtracks. But, over time, Emmet decides to dump Hattie, because as an artist, he can't have any permanent commitments. Eventually, a new woman, writer Blanche (Uma Thurman) enters his life and his career endures more ups and downs. But, has Emmet totally forgotten the sweet Hattie? This is a superlative film, with a great cast, story, and music. Woody Allen wrote this gem, of course, and it is very funny and tragic at the same time. Allen appears in the movie himself, as a commentator on the music of Emmet Ray. Penn, known more for his serious work, is a total delight as the self-centered but engaging guitarist. Just watch him try to land on stage from a giant swinging moon and you will laugh yourself silly. Morton, who garnered an Academy award nomination (as did Penn), has no dialogue but is wonderful and expressive as the sweet, faithful woman done wrong. The rest of the cast, including Thurman, Gretchen Mol, Anthony LaPaglia, and others, is fine, too. The look of the film, a re-creation of the twenties and thirties, sports excellent costumes, scenery, and amenities. Finally, the music is lovely, vibrant, and a pure pleasure to hear. If you have never tried an Allen flick, here is one on which to begin your pursuits. It will strum its way into your heart and soul, between huge peals of laughter.