Wick's Review

Summary - OK 2.5

Great acting from Andy Garcia and Julianna Margulies rescues a disappointing script, making City Island a pleasant diversion, but little more. The story about secrets maintained and revealed in a loving family grows episodic, often more head-scratching than involving.

Acting - Very Good 3.5

Andy Garcia nearly caricatures working class NY Italians, but he’s such a charismatic actor that the performance achieves greatness. He’s nearly matched by Julianna Margulies, as his gives-as-good-as-she-gets wife.

With a handful of exceptions, the rest of the cast can’t hold a candle to them. The great Alan Arkin slums a bit playing an acting teacher, while the charming Emily Mortimer gives surprising depth to a mysterious woman. Steven Strait counts as a pleasant discovery, a little known actor with impressive intensity, look and range.

Film - OK 2.5

For a movie that purports to be a comedy, the laughs are very few and far between.

Edge - Risqué 1.8

Reality - Glib 1.3

1 Comment

• BrianSez Sep 9, 2011 9:53PM

  Regarding Wick’s Review
  Usually we are closer on our reviews, so it is a good thing I didn’t read yours before watching this movie, which I really liked. Guess that’s the way it goes in the reviewer’s world!

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