underrated, magnificent

Rating: Null/10 (16 January 2003)

This films very underrated - reminds me of 'Harvey' (a favourite of Carry's if I'm not wrong). The film effortless juggles between satire and poignancy. With a great and somewhat quite fantastical premise, there was always the chance the film would not be delivered to its full potential. But credit to Weir, he has constructed one the standout american films of the nineties; One which deserves more recognition than it already recieves from within those stuck-up critical circles. The film is not the most in depth around by measure of symbolism and other such what nots, but this is preferred since it is thankfully devoid of the sort of seriousness and pretension that these elitist critics often hold in such high regard. Films shouldn't have to be Bergman or Fellini, to be considered great. Greatness comes in other forms, not just in charting human nature etc. (although its certainly essential to have a wide variety, as with all things in life). Similarities to Hitchcock then, in that its glorious entertainment fused with subtle humour and intelligence, and brought into fruition with great aplomb. This is a film which will linger in your mind long after you leave the theatre.
Carrey's performance is great. Famously billed as his first great serious performance. I was not too convinced on first viewing, since he plays it a bit tongue in cheek at times. But on further viewings his performance, and that of the cast is now recognised by this individual, as extremely understated in its brilliance - complementing the tone of the film perfectly, as it elicits subtle laughs as well as more touching moments of poignancy (complemented by a breathtaking musical score).

Truman is certainly one of the most likeably characters since Mr George Bailey himself and that in itself is a feat achieved. By the dramatically moving and nailbaiting denouement, you too will be cheering Truman on. Plus he gets the girl.
RECOMMENDED WITH EXTREME CONVICTION.