Product: The Fisher King [VHS] (1991)
Rating: 1.0
AVOID - Pretends to be deep BUT shallow and gimmicky
Yes, I do like art films, non-mainstream films, thought-provoking films - and for those who are still wondering, I am no fan of action or classic hollywood formulas etc. Thus what I have to say is not based on any heartbreak over lack of action or cheesy romance or a simple linear storyline.No, the real problem is that this movie takes on a number of contemporary topics (such as homelessness, urban isolation, depression, existential ennui, inflammatory talk-radio, ... yes the list is lo..ng) mixes them up with a dash of (obviously labored) enigma and a generous serving of shock-value items (violence, language, nudity, meaningless scenes - Robin Williams obliges competently here) and serves them up with the suggestive lure of slightly non-traditional cinematography (odd angles and extreme close-ups of faces, lips - also overdone) - with the hope that perhaps the pseudo-artsy segment will fall for these gimmicks (and forget that there is really no depth, no original thoughts or insights whatsoever) and hail it as another great, maverick production. (And judging from the nominations, the ploy worked!)Yes, I like Robin Williams and that is why I fell for it - yet that couldn't alter a fundamentally flawed movie that's trying to exploit our interest in these "deeper human topics/issues". Great acting (even if I were to concede that) cannot cover-up for a pointless, phony script.In summary, DO NOT waste your money (and more importantly TIME) on this one - even if you can see it for free!Regards all.P.S. There is a difference between being creative/unconventional for the benefit of gaining unique perspectives leading to new connections/insights - and being "creative/zany" for the sake of it i.e. to get attention and fuel our narcissism. It's good to be able to tell the difference.