Mumford

Rating:
Summary: Awww, Crap!
Review: I've seen a lot of movies in my life, and Mumford is nothing more than just another to add to the list. I don't like it, I don't hate it, and I don't feel any different after having seen it. I hate being so apathetic, but that's just what this movie does to a viewer.

This is the story of a pseudo-psychologist named Mumford (Loren Dean) who lives and practices in a town named Mumford. He's not the typical shrink. He'll make you feel bad if he has to, he'll tell you to never come back to his office again, and he'll divulge your inner most secrets to anyone who wants to know them. But in spite of his unprofessional approaches to therapy, the whole town seems to love him. We learn half-way through the movie that he's not really a psychologist at all, and everything this town knows about me is completely fraudulent. He's really a former investigator for the Internal Revenue Service who took a few wrong turns in life and decided to completely relinquish his past and start over in this town. The movie shows him treating several very colorful and interesting patients with some very serious problems before his true identity is discovered, though I won't reveal the consequences he must face in the end.

Loren Dean does an adequate job in his performance as a sober-minded psychologist. Though, he's not a terribly gifted actor, and I don't see why anyone would want to give him the lead role in a major movie. Hope Davis, Jason Lee, Alfre Woodard, and Mary McDonnell are also good in their performances as Mumford's patients.

I suppose the reason why this movie wasn't very appealing to me was that the plot was too "by the numbers." In fact, there wasn't much of a plot at all. It relies too much of trying to evoke certain feelings or moods from its audience, which just doesn't ever happen. There's enough substance here to keep a viewer engaged for the duration of the movie, but just not enough to evoke emotion.

Rating:
Summary: There's Nothing Special To See In This Movie
Review: I've seen a lot of movies in my life, and Mumford is nothing more than just another to add to the list. I don't like it, I don't hate it, and I don't feel any different after having seen it. I hate being so apathetic, but that's just what this movie does to a viewer.

This is the story of a pseudo-psychologist named Mumford (Loren Dean) who lives and practices in a town named Mumford. He's not the typical shrink. He'll make you feel bad if he has to, he'll tell you to never come back to his office again, and he'll divulge your inner most secrets to anyone who wants to know them. But in spite of his unprofessional approaches to therapy, the whole town seems to love him. We learn half-way through the movie that he's not really a psychologist at all, and everything this town knows about me is completely fraudulent. He's really a former investigator for the Internal Revenue Service who took a few wrong turns in life and decided to completely relinquish his past and start over in this town. The movie shows him treating several very colorful and interesting patients with some very serious problems before his true identity is discovered, though I won't reveal the consequences he must face in the end.

Loren Dean does an adequate job in his performance as a sober-minded psychologist. Though, he's not a terribly gifted actor, and I don't see why anyone would want to give him the lead role in a major movie. Hope Davis, Jason Lee, Alfre Woodard, and Mary McDonnell are also good in their performances as Mumford's patients.

I suppose the reason why this movie wasn't very appealing to me was that the plot was too "by the numbers." In fact, there wasn't much of a plot at all. It relies too much of trying to evoke certain feelings or moods from its audience, which just doesn't ever happen. There's enough substance here to keep a viewer engaged for the duration of the movie, but just not enough to evoke emotion.

Rating:
Summary: Why can't we all be Mumford?
Review: In the absolutely charming and touching film "Mumford", Lawrence Kasdan manages to do something uncommon in most films today. He creates a troupe of characters which are complex, dynamic, and full. In today's mainstream slop, where chatacters sometimes rate third underneath facades of plots and special effects, it was so nice to sit back, relax, and get to know the inhabitants of Mumford.

The story itself is never out of control or totally unbelievable. That's because you fall in love with the town and its inhabitants almost from the start. Mumford becomes the community we all want to live in, and not because its a quiet little town, but the people that make up that town. You are drawn in to Mumford's reality, and even in the town's imperfections, you find the happiness that undercurrents everything. Quite amazing feeling tone for a film to create.

Loren Dean pulls off his role as the town's new psychologist with such ease and grace, you yourself wish you could be on his couch. Hope Davis is aboslutely radiant as well, complementing but never outshining her counterpart. A favorite and underappreciated actress of mine, Alfre Woodard, shine and glows in her small but pivotal role.

I highly recommend Mumford. I watched it on DVD and longed for the usual treats that DVD brings, but no director's commentary and very few extra features here. Still, rent or buy Mumford today!

Rating:
Summary: Odd movie
Review: It's difficult to judge this movie. It's very peculiar. The story is certainly unusual. The characters are odd. Even the acting was odd. Not bad, just weird.

A psychologist in a small town sees a strange array of cases, ranging from classic pornography obsession to chronic fatigue syndrome. The town has lots of secrets, but none quite like that of the therapist. Ethics and therapy technique are challenged when he falls for one of his patients.

This isn't a bad movie by any means. It's just hard to describe because it's so unusual. After seeing it, you're left with neither a good nor a bad feeling.

Rating:
Summary: A Compliment to "Grand Canyon"
Review: Kasdan has again created a film that can touch any movie watcher. I am a twenty-year-old student, and this like his other films has earned a spot in my memorable favorites list. Nine years ago I watched "Grand Canyon" and my film taste has never been the same. Kasdan made a film then, like now, that is suggestive and seems to talk to each of us in a certain way. "Mumford" is a film that will make you introspective while watching it, making you question yourself and where you are headed. The conclusion is much like "Grand Canyon's" however, how we get there is completely different. A particular scene in "Mumford" that flexes Kasdan's ability is when they discuss the secret person we all want to be, and how exciting it is when we see these traits break lose. A truly good film, that should definitely be watched if not owned.

Rating:
Summary: Enjoyable Above average comedy.
Review: Lawrence (Big Chill, Body Heat, Grand Canyon) Kasdan's Mumford is a casually paced, fairly intelligent light comedy. I knew exactly where it was going and how it was going to get there within ten minutes, yet the writing, acting (casting) was strong enough that I felt the film still offered enough rewards to warrant a strong recommendation (but not a rave)from me.

It's a warm fuzzy film, but little more than merely a charming time-killer. We need good little films like this, so please understand this is not a put down.

Most folks will know what the twist of the film is, because it was given away in the trailer (criminal that they do this)and even if it's been a while since you've seen it, you'll remember. That's okay, because at about the films mid-way point, the twist is revealed. There's some more information that for some might remain a surprise (but I saw it coming).

That doesn't mean the film was completely predictable for me. The joy was for me was the tone of the entire film. It's not a dumb comedy, but an intelligent one. It's one where the humor comes from the characters and their believable interactions with each other. It's a quiet, leisurely paced film. Kasdan a master of duplicating and improving ideas (as in Sayle's Return of the Seacacus 7 into Big Chill) or modernizing genres (such as Out of the Past into Body Heat) or here he gives us Mumford as a modern Lubitsch comedy.

I really enjoyed a couple of the performances in the film. My favorite is probably David Paymer's supporting role as a psychiatrist. He was perfectly cast in a role that wasn't a stretch for him, but there was a real warmth he brought to the role.

I was pleasantly surprised at how restrained Martin Short was in his supporting role as a criminal lawyer. Alfre Woodard as usual was perfect in her portrayal of Lily, the black woman who runs the popular Lunch Cafe in town-her acting is usual effortless and always graceful. Jason Lee as the Paul Allen type rich geek, Skip Skipperton was charming, winning, and believable-though his performance has a few too many look-at me-type forced mannerisms which someone like Woodard never employs. Ted Danson's contribution, though short, was spot on.

Mary McDonnel who's best performance can be found in John Sayles' underappreciated Passion Fish (with Alfre Woodard) is quite good here, as a woman on the verge of a nervous breakdown at the age of menopause.

Hope Davis who becomes the love interest of Dr. Mumford is also quite good, though her character doesn't develop additional depth as the film progresses which would have added to the film.

The weakest link, is is Loren Dean as Mumford. It's not the actors fault actually, the fault is in how the character has been written -- it's a pity a little more edge couldn't have been given to this too bland character. He's supposed to be a guy who seamless fits into everyone's lives un-noticed, but the actor disappears into the film without leaving a particularly memorable impression. He's good, better than adequate, but not a stand out.

The film is too slight to get too excited about, but has some nice moments throughout that many will appreciate. It has a consistent believable tone and pacing throughout that is not artificially inflated to create a more exciting or suspenseful climax. For some there will be a bit of surprise toward the end of the film, but one the film has earned honestly.

There's a story here as well which concerns a new Psychologist in a small town who has a unique way of listening and talking, about and to his patients with respect and warmth. His impact on the town, his way of reaching most of patients, and his secrets are what drive the narrative. It's the characters' believable quirks and charms which make the ride enjoyable.

Chris Jarmick

Rating:
Summary: Refreshing, uplifting, movie about faith and friendship
Review: Lawrence Kasdan has done it again. In "Grand Canyon", another terrific movie, Kasdan's characters made connections that changed the course of their lives, just by being alert to the opportunities that inhere in everyday circumstances that most people let pass. Like the Kevin Kline character in that film, here Dr. Mumford, played wonderfully by Dean, breaks the rules of social convention and makes a difference in the lives of others. That is one of the things that makes movies like this uplifting.

It's basically the same point made in the classic film we all know from the Christmas season, "It's a Wonderful Life"--you can make a difference. But here the bonus is that this film is partially a hilarious send-up of the "mental health" business, as usually practiced by those in the field of psychiatry/psychology/therapy. Anyone who is skeptical of the conventional "methodologies" of therapists will love this film.

There are several great scenes: imagine a therapist who takes his patient for a long walk, plays catch with another, all the while talking as another human being, and listening, really getting to know what the "patient's" concerns are.

The humor is understated, but occasionally laugh out loud. The characters are compelling. The observations, especially as we see what Mumford, the protagonist, has escaped from himself in his own life, are wise and moving. It's a movie to watch with your best friend, or maybe someone you want to be your best friend.

So why not five stars? I didn't like the music used. But undoubtedly this is a great movie. Don't miss it.

Rating:
Summary: Refreshing, uplifting, movie about faith and friendship
Review: Lawrence Kasdan has done it again. In "Grand Canyon", another terrific movie, Kasdan's characters made connections that changed the course of their lives, just by being alert to the opportunities that inhere in everyday circumstances that most people let pass. Like the Kevin Kline character in that film, here Dr. Mumford, played wonderfully by Dean, breaks the rules of social convention and makes a difference in the lives of others. That is one of the things that makes movies like this uplifting.

It's basically the same point made in the classic film we all know from the Christmas season, "It's a Wonderful Life"--you can make a difference. But here the bonus is that this film is partially a hilarious send-up of the "mental health" business, as usually practiced by those in the field of psychiatry/psychology/therapy. Anyone who is skeptical of the conventional "methodologies" of therapists will love this film.

There are several great scenes: imagine a therapist who takes his patient for a long walk, plays catch with another, all the while talking as another human being, and listening, really getting to know what the "patient's" concerns are.

The humor is understated, but occasionally laugh out loud. The characters are compelling. The observations, especially as we see what Mumford, the protagonist, has escaped from himself in his own life, are wise and moving. It's a movie to watch with your best friend, or maybe someone you want to be your best friend.

So why not five stars? I didn't like the music used. But undoubtedly this is a great movie. Don't miss it.

Rating:
Summary: Analyze This
Review: Lawrence Kasdan is known as a director in whose films characters are the most important thing, so they are very deep and well developed. This 'Mumford' makes no exeception to his other movies. There are plenty of people here, and all of them seem to be real people, and make us care about.

The main character --Mumford-- is a shrink in a little town where people have not so complicated problems, only simple ones. So his jos resulmes to sit and listen to his patients, nod along and give one or two suggestions. But, we know, the movie must move on; and we also know he has something he prefers to leave behind. Nevertheless, the past knocks his door and he has to face it.

However, it seems to me that Dr Mumford is only virtually the main character of this drama. Because he sounds like an excuse to tell many other stories -- his patients' --, which happen to be as interesting as his own past. It is impossible not to get involved with the characters and their problems. Even the audience tries to come up in their mind with solutions to these people's conditions. And, let's face it, it is not hard to diagnose what is affecting them, nor to figure out a way of dealing with.

The cast is good. Although Loren Dean, the actor who plays Dr Mumford, looks a bit apathic sometimtes -- but actually I think this is the way the character is--, Hope Davis is wonderful and she steals the show. She plays a woman with a strange syndrome, who is tired most of the time and has lost the interest in life. She is beautiful and looks sunny despite her sadness. Jason Lee is extremelly effective and captivating as a very lonely young man, who makes friends with Doc --as he says.

All in all, this is an authentic Lawrence Kasdan's movie --if there happens to be such a thing. It is dramatic -- not so much-- and very funny sometimes. Here, more than acting, people live -- who would ask more?

Rating:
Summary: Analyze This
Review: Lawrence Kasdan is known as a director in whose films characters are the most important thing, so they are very deep and well developed. This `Mumford' makes no exeception to his other movies. There are plenty of people here, and all of them seem to be real people, and make us care about.

The main character --Mumford-- is a shrink in a little town where people have not so complicated problems, only simple ones. So his jos resulmes to sit and listen to his patients, nod along and give one or two suggestions. But, we know, the movie must move on; and we also know he has something he prefers to leave behind. Nevertheless, the past knocks his door and he has to face it.

However, it seems to me that Dr Mumford is only virtually the main character of this drama. Because he sounds like an excuse to tell many other stories -- his patients' --, which happen to be as interesting as his own past. It is impossible not to get involved with the characters and their problems. Even the audience tries to come up in their mind with solutions to these people's conditions. And, let's face it, it is not hard to diagnose what is affecting them, nor to figure out a way of dealing with.

The cast is good. Although Loren Dean, the actor who plays Dr Mumford, looks a bit apathic sometimtes -- but actually I think this is the way the character is--, Hope Davis is wonderful and she steals the show. She plays a woman with a strange syndrome, who is tired most of the time and has lost the interest in life. She is beautiful and looks sunny despite her sadness. Jason Lee is extremelly effective and captivating as a very lonely young man, who makes friends with Doc --as he says.

All in all, this is an authentic Lawrence Kasdan's movie --if there happens to be such a thing. It is dramatic -- not so much-- and very funny sometimes. Here, more than acting, people live -- who would ask more?