Rating: Summary: Odd but Enjoyable Review: Platt is the son of a famous comic played by Jerry Lewis (big stretch for him, huh?). The son, struggling to be a comic but terribly overshadowed by his dad, ends up running away to where he grew up: England. There he expects it to be like old times, but, of course, it's not.It sounds like a linear plot, but it took a long time for me to figure out what was going on. There are a lot of very strange things that happen at the beginning, and one scene made me dream of amputations that night. But if you enjoy vaudeville; odd, independant type films;or good dramedy, you will probably enjoy this. (My husband laughed in many places but I don't think he was entirely impressed.)
Rating: Summary: Great Film: Have visited Blackpool 3 times since 2000 Review: Saw this strange and enchanting film in the theatre upon its release. From the moment I saw the Caption, "Blackpool by the Sea" - superimposed over a wide shot of the city - I knew I had to visit there. Just returned from a week-long visit in June - my third since 2000. Oddly enough, the people of Blackpool are not all that different from those depicted in the film. Many are quirky, offbeat and super friendly. Have watched the VHS tape many times and still laugh at the variety of brilliant comic set pieces, particularly the "audition montage." Many heartfelt moments in this picture. Just learned of the DVD, which I will purchase immediately. Thank you Peter C. for making this little gem!
Rating: Summary: Great Film: Have visited Blackpool 3 times since 2000 Review: Saw this strange and enchanting film in the theatre upon its release. From the moment I saw the Caption, "Blackpool by the Sea" - superimposed over a wide shot of the city - I knew I had to visit there. Just returned from a week-long visit in June - my third since 2000. Oddly enough, the people of Blackpool are not all that different from those depicted in the film. Many are quirky, offbeat and super friendly. Have watched the VHS tape many times and still laugh at the variety of brilliant comic set pieces, particularly the "audition montage." Many heartfelt moments in this picture. Just learned of the DVD, which I will purchase immediately. Thank you Peter C. for making this little gem!
Rating: Summary: What would you trade for comedic talent? Review: This movie veers brilliantly between the joy of comedy and the pain that lies just beneath its surface. It gets messy at times, but only because it sets high expectations for itself. It's a movie that will pop into your mind later, both for its humor and its poignancy. Oliver Platt and Lee Evans were new to me in this one, and give dead-on performances. Evans produces two of the best comedic scenes I've ever watched, and the movie has several glorious set pieces. Make no mistake, though: this is not a comedy overall. It is a character-driven drama with soaring moments of slapstick and vaudeville. The grim moments mentioned in other reviews are disturbing, but provide counterpoint to the humor. In tone, this movie is similar to the Coen brothers' movies- eclectic, moving, and funny. At ten bucks it's a fantastic bargain.
Rating: Summary: Off-beat, very funny and thought-provoking Review: This off-beat film deserves a wider audience. The performances of Platt, Lews, Caron and Evans are wonderful - and the story, although somewhat convoluted, provides much substance for the thoughtful viewer. I guarantee you will not regret seeing "Funny Bones."
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