Friday, January 12, 2007

Noteworthy Giggle


Has anyone seen "Notes On a Scandal" yet? The reviews are pretty good, but every time I see one of the trailers I begin to laugh uncontrollably. (I'm guessing this isn't the reaction the producers are going for.). I don't know if it's because I don't understand that lifestyle or what, but it just looks hilarious. Judi Dench is so ridiculously over the top that she makes Faye Dunaway's Joan Crawford seem like Maria von Trapp. On top of that, even if I did want to see it, the preview is nine hours long and pretty much tells you the entire plot.

I could be wrong, but something tells me "Notes On a Scandal" is destined to become the "Showgirls" of the new millennium ...

12 comments:

Anonymous said...

I'm new to your blog, and have enjoyed it immensly, but have to say you are WAY off to mark with your assessment of Notes On A Scandal. Although it's not a "perfect" movie, it has a lot going for it, including an amazing cast with acting that can't be beat. Yes, Dame Judi is a bit over the top, but that's what makes this movie so delicious. And, no, you probably won't laugh when you see it!
All the best. Thanks for a fun blog!
DL in (yes, I'll admit it) LA

Anonymous said...

Oh yeah you will! This movie is going to be re-enacted by drag queens across the country as soon as they get a hold of it.

People were laughing throughout the screening at the Angelika the other night.

"What did you think we were going to fuck on the floor," says Cate. "Don't cheapen our relationship," replies Judi. "You think this is a relationship," Cate lashes back. All underscored not very subtly by Philip Glass!

I felt like I was watching MOMMIE DEAREST.

Anonymous said...

The line is said - "Barbara, please!"

In the hands of a lesser actor Dench's character would be horrible. Thankfully, she adds depth where none is written.

Anonymous said...

On the contrary, it's an excellent movie, thanks to Dench. She could have been a caricature, but we emerge feeling a surprising amount of sympathy for her -- and Blanchett too, who's nobody's angel. (I'm using the actress's names, but obviously I mean the parts they're playing.)

I didn't hear any laughter at the screening I attended -- in Chelsea, no less.

Anonymous said...

Yeah, it's a funny movie alright, because it's supposed to be funny. British humor is far more acidic than ours, like when Dench casually refers to a fat teacher as "the pig in knickers." See the movie, Kenneth, and feel free to laugh out loud. We all did.

Anonymous said...

It was an excellent movie... sorry Kenneth but your no movie critic by any means!

Anonymous said...

^^^ his no movie critic by any means what?

Kenneth M. Walsh said...

I didn't even see the movie, I'm talking about the trailer!!!

Anonymous said...

It's a really great and powerful movie...give it a shot. I saw it on the strength of seeing Cate one evening on "Letterman". Don't go by what the trailer shows...I'm sure it looks like something from the Lifetime Channel, but believe me, it's not. Features to brilliant performances...the ultimate shrewish busybody spinster, and a sexed-up teacher

Anonymous said...

The movie is excellent, the acting is superb. You should see it, Kenneth!

Anonymous said...

As above. Definitely see this film. It's fucking great, with a capital F.G. (I guess I could have just used a capital FG, but I didn't, so, well, okay I'll stop now)

Anonymous said...

Notes on a Scandal was a GREAT film - both Judi Dench and Cate Blanchett were fabulous; no one could have played Dench's part as well as she did. I am wondering about your taste in films, Kenneth. You are quite negative (like all the time)! You weren't too keen on Dreamgirls either, and look - THREE Golden Globes. See the movie before you pass judgement, baby!