Wick's Review

Summary - OK 2.5

A small story amplified Hollywood large, this earnest movie features a novel human interest tale, some affecting moments, and more than a little insight into the plight of the mentally ill homeless. Is it worth two hours of screening time? Only if you feel a personal connection to its themes, are an Angelino, can’t get enough of Downey or Foxx, or (like me) are stuck on a plane.

Acting - Good 3.0

Strong performances from Jamie Foxx and Robert Downey Jr. fail the test of greatness: It’s possible to imagine other actors playing the roles. Foxx – in the more idiosyncratic role as the musician afflicted with schizophrenia – proves yet again that he’s long since become a serious actor. Downey – in the entirely standard role of newspaper columnist – reinforces that he plays edgy intelligence as well as anyone.

Solid turns by the supporting players – especially Catherine Keener and Lisa Gay Hamilton – still don’t elevate this into anything special from an acting POV.

Film - OK 2.5

Oddly, the music fails to transport the viewer, even though a dominant theme of the film is how music transports the mad soloist.

Edge - Tame 1.3

Reality - Glib 1.1

Ahh Hollywood: Steve Lopez is happily married in real life but divorced and self-centered in the movie.

More significant is the apparent truth the movie conveys about not just Nathaniel Anthony Ayers, but the tens of thousands of mentally ill homeless living on the mean streets of LA.

Want to reach out? Check out The Nathaniel Anthony Ayers Foundation.

2 Comments

• BrianSez Jul 12, 2010 8:09PM

  Thanks for the Keener lead! I’m adding that to my see list.

• Wick Jul 12, 2010 2:55PM

  Regarding BrianSez’s Review
  “Schizophrenia meets Narcissism.” Great lead.

  Interesting that this is one of the rare movies you rated higher than me. You’re usually the tougher grader.

  Looking for more Katherine Keener? She’s the first character on screen in Cyrus.

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