Ethics v. career: A tough call.

Rating: 9/10 (5 April 2009)

Some might characterize this as a"chick flick" or a "teen flick" from the MTV generation. This could be true. Nevertheless, my take on this film is the enduring conflict of family values and personal ethics v. the need to succeed.
Anne's entrance is superlative as is her character arc while the film progresses. Streep is the perfect Miranda and Tucci is absolutely Nigel. All the actors and even cameo performers did a wonderful job. I believe Simon Baker was miscast because his "good looks and killer charm" were no match for Anne.
The actual story is believable and defines conflicts that rage from fashion icons to night manager jobs at McDonald's. These conflicts erode relationships, friendships and marriages, and they create stress, anger and doubt about how to actually live.
In Miranda's case, she fails while she prevails, albeit temporarily, but Andy catches herself before crossing that faint line separating what is really important from things (and people) that become out of place and out of style.
I read comments regarding Nigel's alleged homosexuality. What does that matter? He refers to "a boy in Rhode Island with six brothers who pretends to go to soccer practice while reading "Runway" under the covers with a flash light." But was he referring to himself? He states: "Give me a full ballerina skirt and a hint of saloon and I'm on board!" Can you imagine him with a big head, and a conspicuous Adam's apple in drag wearing size twenty? I do not understand the relevance of such comments as they have nothing to do with the film. This was a great blend of comedy and real life challenges that kept my interest due to high energy, characters with vitality, and sharp direction.