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Chasing Amy - Criterion Collection

Chasing Amy - Criterion Collection

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Rating: 4 stars
Summary: good movie
Review: my favorite kevin smith movie is clerks and chasing amy. very funny movie with ben affleck and joey lauren adams. i recomend this if you like the other kevin smith movies. worth the money.

Rating: 3 stars
Summary: Corny
Review: It has a potentially fascinating plot for a comedy - but half way it gives way to sentimentality instead - and the whole story ends up rather weak. I know most people would not like this, but I'd say this is a movie for those who're only romantics in the conventional sense. I'm sure a lot of people out there imagine saying those 'heart-felt' lines in this movie in front of a girl or something - or enjoy imagining they're such romantic souls who're capable of explosion of such feelings - but those who're more aware of complexities of such situations and on a higher level would see it as unrealistic. I'd appreciate it more if the director had done it with more honesty - which I am sure he is capable of, having seen his other stuff and his interviews, etc.

Rating: 5 stars
Summary: Smith's Best
Review: As you see from the title above, I believe that this is (far and away) the best of Kevin Smith's excellent films. Chasing Amy has a perfect blend of comedy, drama, and Smith's trademark dialogue and character development. Since you have no doubt read a synopsis of the story, I shall spare you from having to read the same thing yet again, but I will tell you that anything you have read about the excellent performances turned in by all actors (especially Dwight Ewell, as Hooper X, and Joey Lauren Adams) is true. Problems with this film are few and far between, though there are scenes in which Ben Affleck could have, or should have done a bit better...in some scenes the emotion and/or timing is off, elements that are key in such a film as this. For all the critics of Jay and Silent Bob, the stoner duo who are the most frequently ridiculed characters in the Askewniverse, their part in this movie is more than just random or unimportant hijinks. They, more specifically Silent Bob, play an important role in bringing Holden to his conclusion as to what must happen in keeping his relationships alive.

Now, for the DVD content. At the time that this review was written, the extras are a bit more than standard fare for a comedy. There's an intro by Kevin Smith himself, 10 deleted scenes, each with intros (a few of which should have remained in the film, in my opinion. I especially recommend the "Money and Power" scene, for those with the DVD). There is a commentary by Smith, some of his crew behind the camera, along with Affleck and Jason Mewes. Let's not forget the outtakes, which are, as usual, quite enjoyable to watch. If memory serves, that's about it on the DVD, but that in itself makes it a great buy. To summarize: there is nothing, other than a distaste for swearing, that should deter you from at least renting this movie.

Rating: 5 stars
Summary: Close to Being My Favorite Movie
Review: If it wasn't for Dogma this movie could be my favorite movie. The strength of this movie lies not only in the brilliant story but also in the performances by the three main characters. Ben Affleck turns in the best performance of his career. If this was the only high point this movie would still be excellent, but Joey Lauren Adams is also at her best. Finally, I have to mention Jason Lee. All three of these actors are at the top of their games. Their combined strength pushed this into classic status. You can literally feel the pain and anguish between Holden and Alyssa. You can practically see the fury pulsating out of Banky's pores. While many focus on the "revelation" scenes between Holden and Alyssa (as they rightly should) attention should also be paid to the interchange between Holden and Banky after he discovers Holden and Alyssa together. There is a quiet beauty and feeling of loss there that is oft overlooked. Over the top? Yes. A bit absurd? mayhaps. Brilliant and timeless? definately. One of the best movies of the 90's and of all time

Rating: 4 stars
Summary: A smarter side of Kevin Smith (4.75 stars)
Review: In certainly Kevin Smith's most dramatic film, the brilliant acting is spread to more than just one individual (in 'Clerks' it was O'Halloran; in 'Mallrats' it was Jason Lee). Some will cite the use of the f-word and sexist themes to be unnecessary; however, they are what make 'Chasing Amy' a Kevin Smith movie. But the acting, the real story, and the unlimited comedy are what make this such an awe-inspiring movie. The duos here -- of Ben Affleck and Lee; then Affleck and Joey Lauren Adams -- easily make this movie one that anyone can enjoy; even if they're not a huge Kevin Smith admirer. Yet in the end, it's Smith himself who makes this movie so astounding and worthwhile.

As many of the other reviewers have done a superb job in reviewing the plot of 'Chasing Amy', there is really no need for me to go into great detail. We all know it's about a guy who falls in love with a lesbian. But it's the way this happens that makes it so entertaining. Affleck (as Holden McNeil) does a perfect job with the role; as you can gradually see how he is affected by Alyssa. We all know that Holden and Alyssa do eventually fall "in love". But it's not just like that. There's much that leads up to it; including efforts by the character of Banky Edwards (played by Jason Lee) to warn Holden of the consequences. I completely agree with another reviewer in stating Lee deserved the best supporting role of '97 for his part here. Not only for his drama-like scenes, but also for the many bits of comedy he brings to the film. He is, in all probability, my favorite actor because of this movie. We also know that Jay and Silent Bob are only featured for about 10 minutes. And for you "snootchie bootchies!" fanatics out there: you may be slightly dissatisfied with that fact, yet you should realize that 'Amy' is only the warm-up for 'Jay And Silent Bob Strike Back' (many of these lines and actions between Affleck and Jay are reused in the 2001 classic). This film acts as an introduction to the Bluntman & Chronic comic; even though the comic itself has no real influence on the story's outcome. As I've said, it's Kevin who makes the movie. I won't spoil anything for you as you probably already know anyway. But midway through the film you'll [most likely] be wondering what the title has to do with the movie.

There is almost nothing wrong with 'Chasing Amy' (I'd give it 4.75 stars, not just four), but some of the characters are almost too down-to-earth for us to handle. For example, the character of Hooper-X (Dwight Ewell) as a gay, black man may make it awkward for the layperson. And the same goes for the appearance of Carmen Lee (as Kim, Alyssa's quote-unquote: fxck buddy). But overall there's little, if anything, that makes this movie imperfect. On a brighter note, the cast list for this movie is almost exactly the same as 'Mallrats'. But two newbies do appear. I.e. Matt Damon (with a cameo) and Casey Affleck (Ben's little brother). And even though both have small appearances, both add prominence to the film's brilliance.

In ranking Kevin Smith's five movies, I would put 'Amy' at number four (1. Mallrats | 2. J&SBSB | 3. Dogma). But don't let my rank fool you; this is an excellent movie that everyone should view at least once (except for children). That rank is my opinion. And remember, opinions work like suggestions; and they can be argued and/or changed. There's many aspects of this that could make it your favorite Smith film. In contrast, there's definitely aspects that may allow you to find any of his other movies more enjoyable. I'm sort of in between. There's great comedy present here, but maybe not enough for some Smith fans. There's great drama present here, but maybe a bit too much; again, for some Smith fans. I look forward with great anticipation to Kevin's next movie: 'Jersey Girl'. It comes out towards the end of summer and has been said to be better than this one. But for now we should still embrace 'Chasing Amy'. Whatever the case may be; and whatever your views on Kevin Smith and his movies, I highly recommend 'Chasing Amy' to anyone and everyone out there.

Rating: 5 stars
Summary: "Your mother's a tracer!"
Review: Kevin Smith's third film in the View Askewniverse series follows the pursuit of lesbian-comic artist, Alyssa Jones (Joey Lauren Adams), by fellow comic artist Holden Mcneil (Ben Affleck). The film mainly focuses on their progressing relationship and it's effects on everyone around them, including Holden's best friend and co-artist (Or inker, or tracer, whatever you want to call him) Banky (Jason Lee). Throughout the film, many twists are presented and many shocking revelations are made. If you haven't been told the whole story of the movie, you won't read it here, because I will not ruin it for you. This is my favorite Kevin Smith film for one reason: It's REAL. It hits so close to home because I (as well as many other people) have had a relationship similar to the one between Holden and Alyssa. This movie is for anyone who has every felt insignificant or insecure in a relationship. The movie is honest and is not afraid to face defeat. Many people call it a romantic comedy, which it is not. Also, this is not a film about homosexuality. Alyssa's sexuality is merely a plot-point, which is proved by the fact that so many people can relate to this movie without dating a lesbian. This movie is basically a Kevin Smith drama. It has it's funny moments (and when they come around, they are hilarious, especially a conversation about Archie & Jughead's sexuality). Aside from it's light moments, its a very heavy film, and anyone who has ever experienced anything remotely similar will be glued to the screen. Kevin Smith is a master at dialogue. It's been said before that he is a lousy director and he can only set up the simplest of shots, but that's not the point. He knows his characters, he gets inside, and this is definetly his best movie to date. The DVD is excellent as well. It contains over a half-hour of deleted scenes and a very light-hearted, unconventional commentary. I recommend all Kevin Smith fans who have not seen it go out and buy this movie. Smith's attention to detail really paid off on this one.

Rating: 4 stars
Summary: Funny -- take it for what it's worth
Review: I think this is, by far, director Kevin Smith's best film. While many attacked it as a male fantasy (it's the love story of a lesbian woman and a straight man), I think that's just silly. Sure, lots of straight guys fantasize about being with a lesbian -- but that's the crux of the film's argument.

Chasing Amy is about coming to grips with what is truth over what is fantasy. While this sounds a bit complex for a comedy, it all makes sense. And even if you don't want a "serious" movie that makes you think, this film is loaded with enough scat-type humor that you can have a lot of good laughs and watch a good story without having to invest yourself. But if you do invest yourself -- wow. Some good stuff.

Bottom line: If you liked Clerks, you'll probably like Chasing Amy. If you liked Dogma, you'll probably like Chasing Amy. If you think the only good Kevin Smith film is Mallrats, then you're probably gonna want to pass on Chasing Amy. That's too bad, though, because this is a great flick.

Rating: 5 stars
Summary: Kevin Smith Delivers with Meaningful Yet Hilarious Flick
Review: Kevin Smith is one of the funniest screenwriters (and directors, etc.) out there; he has the best ear for snappy dialog today and delivers with well-timed absurdity and humor. Whereas Mallrats is perhaps his funniest film, Chasing Amy combines that humor with a deeper meaning as he explores the nature of relationships.

The story of a comic book artist who falls for a lesbian, wins her heart, but then cannot deal with her sordid past, the film has both touching and hilarious moments. Perhaps the funniest is delivered in a rant about the lack of black figures in comic books that includes Smith's obligatory Star Wars reference, and the most touching a solioquoy spoken by the normally demure Silent Bob (played by Smith).

The performances are superb from Ben Affleck as Holden, the comic artist who falls for Joey Lauren Adams' lesbian character to Jason Lee as Affleck's angry comic "tracer" friend to Smith and friend Jason Mewes as the drug-dealing duo of Silent Bob and Jay.

Don't overlook this film as did so many in theaters. If you enjoy a film with snappy, well-done dialog and a sense of humor, then Chasing Amy is for you.

Rating: 5 stars
Summary: By Far The Best.....
Review: This is a film that you don't have to be a Kevin Smith fan to appreciate.
What a great movie. Jason Lee and Ben Affleck are great together, and the DVD is packed with alot of extra footage. I have found that although women seem to like this as much as the guys, it is far from a chick flick.
Out of all of Kevin Smith's movies, so far, "..Amy" is my favorite. A fantastic Jay and Silent Bob scene that has Bob not so silent as he explains what "Chasing Amy" acually means.
The only ' "HUH???" in the whole movie is near the end as Affleck attempts to come up with a solution to a sticky situation.
Run, don't walk to get this DVD.

Rating: 4 stars
Summary: Very Good
Review: Kevin Smith's ability to deliver believable dialogue but make it unbelievably funny and meaningful is really uncanny. So many relationship movies today are wrapped up in this sappy dialogue that no one ever hears in real life. Smith's films, and I believe Chasing Amy is the best example of this, really deliver a great combination of humor and emotion that is almost uniformly devoid in modern cinema. Hollywood today can only really produce either stupid gross out comedy or nostalgic fluffy romance, with the twain never to meet. Smith does it, and does it well

Ben Affleck's early effort in Chasing Amy should have definitely alerted any viewer that this was a very talented actor. Affleck plays Holden, a comic book artist who lives with his long time friend and co-worker, Banky. They are two usual single guys from Jersey until Holden meets Alyssa, a wild and vivacious fellow artist. Holden falls madly in love with her, until he finds out that she is a lesbian. Even with this twist, Holden cannot forget Alyssa, and he still pleads with her to give him a chance. This causes friction between Holden and Banky, who really does not like Alyssa.

The magic of this movie is that it tackles so many issues. Holden is a person that goes through so many emotional phases that it really makes the movie fascinating. He is a man so in love with what he cannot have, yet, he is totally unsure of his own actions. Banky, played brilliantly by Jason Lee, is a slightly homophobic and callous person who is hopelessly loyal to Holden, so much so that he regards Alyssa as a threat. No one is more confused then Alyssa, played well by Joey Lauren Adams, who is stuck between her love for Holden and her lifestyle. Their relationship is hurt even more by revelations about Alyssa that do not sit well with Holden. This romance is helped with Smith's trademark dialogue humor that is just hilarious. Great situations and funny acting combine to make a really good movie.

Oh yeah, and Jay and Silent Bob are in it. They do alright.


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