Tag: Romance

Mature Women/Mature Dramas: “Fleishman is in Trouble” (Hulu), “Dead Ringers” (Amazon Prime), & “The Diplomat” (Netflix)

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Fleishman is in Trouble (2022) starring Jesse Eisenberg, Claire Danes, Lizzy Caplan, & Adam Brody

“Fleishman Is in Trouble” follows recently-separated surgeon Toby Fleishman as he enters the world of app-based dating and finds more success than he ever had the last time he was single. When his ex-wife Rachel disappears, he’s left with their kids and no hint of where she is or whether she plans to return. Balancing parenting, friends, a long-awaited promotion at the hospital, and all the eligible women Manhattan has to offer, he realizes that he’ll never be able to figure out what happened to Rachel until he can more honestly examine what happened to their marriage. Libby is Toby’s long-time friend and the narrator. -Synopsis (The Hollywood Reporter)

During a JAN 2023 interview w/ Tonya Mosley on NPR’s Fresh Air, Taffy Brodesser-Akner (a 1st time showrunner/creator) confirmed that many of the main cast were chosen at least partly b/c they’d been well-known as teens and were now middle-aged: “It was so intentional. It was–you know, there was this idea that these actors were too young to play these roles. […] But most of all . . . if I don’t, as a 40-year-old, yet understand what is happening to me in my life, the idea that Jesse Eisenberg–yes, from The Squid And The Whale, yes, from The Social Network–that it’s happening to him, too, that it’s happening to Claire Danes from My So-Called Life, that it’s happening to–oh, my gosh–to Adam Brody [from The O.C.], to Lizzy Caplan [from Mean Girls], to Josh Radnor–all these people that we knew so well as very, very young people. It hits home for me so much to say, oh, my God, this is a force you cannot fight–if you’re lucky. If you’re lucky and you get to live, this is a force that you won’t be able to fight. We’re all going to get old.”

At first, you think this show (a limited series w/ 8 eps) is all about Toby: his (newly) single life, job as a doc, and parenting 2 (adorable) kids. However, after 3 eps, the show dives deep into th the lives of his old pals, Seth (Brody) and Libby (Caplan), then ex-wife Rachel (Danes). This is a show centered on mature, intelligent, successful, and thoughtful women (perhaps reminding us of a gal pal or fam IRL). Libby is happily married to a loving/supportive hubby; she recently became a SAHM (stay at home mom), BUT this role leaves her dissatisfied. Rachel is NOT the villain that Toby paints her as in the early eps; she’s a V complicated woman who has suffered trauma. Danes is known for her ability to access (V strong) emotions in her acting; she continues to impress here. As one viewer wrote: “It is thought provoking and rich on several levels. Its main achievement is to get the viewer to sympathize with then later become cold towards certain characters. The subjectivity of perception is examined. I was reminded how quick we are to judge.” Other viewers noted being surprised (in good ways). There are moments that are just cringe-y, emotional, and/or funny (often coming off as too real). Though these are upper middle-class/ Jewish ppl living in NYC (and nearby ‘burbs), most of their struggles are universal. If you’re single (over 35), you may relate to Seth; he’s in finance (like many in NYC), extroverted, and dates often; he’s still hoping for a deep connection w/ a woman.

Dead Ringers (2023) starring Rachel Weisz

The Mantle twins, identical from head to toe, are on a mission to change the way women give birth. -Synopsis

Warning: This show is NOT for more “sensitive” viewers who generally avoid “body horror” (incl. blood), dysfunctional relationships, and dark themes. Are you a fan of the 1988 David Cronenberg film Dead Ringers? Then, you may want to check out this show (6 eps; limited series). I don’t think I’ve seen anything like this before; it was tough to watch sometimes! The Mantels are NYC-based OBGYNs on the cutting edge of their profession; their dream is to have a birthing clinic where pregnant women (of all incomes/backgrounds) can go to deliver their babies. Elliott and Beverly (Brits) are played by a woman (Weisz in a dual role); we know she can handle any type of role. Weisz explained that she’d shoot a scene as Elliot 1st, opposite scene partner/stand-in (Kitty Hawthorne- recently graduated from RADA), before heading back into hair/makeup to transform into Beverly. Then Weisz (who didn’t attend acting school) would act out the same scene w/ an earpiece in place (so she could hear her own lines). There are strong supporting performances; I was esp. impressed w/ Jennifer Ehle (who also played a key role in She Said) as a tough/uber-wealthy/businesswoman interested in investing in the clinic. The show is smart, atmospheric, and is centered on a (real-world issue)- maternal child mortality. However, there is a TOO much going; some scenes may be confusing (even if paying close attn) and a few characters aren’t well-developed. I wasn’t a fan of the (dark) lighting/filters used in certain scenes. Women (of diverse backgrounds) are prominent in front of and behind the camera. This is an ambitious endeavor, BUT certainly NOT for everyone!

The Diplomat (2023) starring Keri Russell & Rufus Sewell

In the midst of an international crisis, Kate Wyler, a career diplomat, lands in a high-profile job for which she is not suited, with tectonic implications for her marriage and her political future. -Synopsis

Are you a fan of The West Wing, Veep and/or political shows? Then this is the series (9 eps) for you! The showrunner (Debora Cain) worked on The West Wing earlier in her career. We are in a time when both the man and the woman in a relationship are in high-status/high-paying careers. Kate (Keri Russell- worked w/ Adam Driver on Bdwy in 2019) and Hal Wyler (Rufus Sewell) are an attractive/smart/mature “power couple” in diplomacy. They met on the job many years ago, BUT are now serious re: divorce (though keeping it quiet). These actors have great chemistry and play both comedy and drama well. Sewell (who still looks handsome) can do an American accent nicely; he’s perhaps best known for British period dramas. Russell and David Gyasi (who plays British Foreign Sect. Austin Dennison) also have great chemistry; we wonder what could happen when they have to work closely together. I think Gyasi (who in his mannerisms reminded me of Sidney Poitier) has a bright future ahead! Rory Kinnear (who plays Prime Minister Nicol Trowbridge) is also V interesting to watch; you never know what he’ll say. This show is intelligent, well-written, and easy to binge. I can’t wait for Season 2!

“Sliver” (1993) starring Sharon Stone, William Baldwin, & Tom Berenger

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You like to watch… don’t you. -Tagline for the movie

Hoping for a fresh start after a recent divorce, a 35 y.o. book editor, Carly Norris (Sharon Stone- who was signed for $2.5M), moves into an elegant/high-rise apt. in Manhattan. However, the luxurious “sliver” building comes w/ a history of unsolved murders! Carly catches the eye of middle-aged crime novelist, Jack Landsford (Tom Berenger- in a thankless role), and the 20-ish video-game designer, Zeke Hawkins (William Baldwin). There is a voyeur watching the tenants’ every move using some (then high-tech) equipment. Is this movie really as bad as most people say? Oh yeah, it’s just a mess! The dialogue is cliched, the characters are shallow (or cartoonish), and the plot is basic (and predictable). The screenplay credits go to Ira Levin (who wrote the source novel) and Joe Eszterhas (whose credits incl. Jagged Edge, Basic Instinct, and Showgirls).

Stone alleged in her autobiography that one of the producers, Robert Evans, wanted to see her naked and treated her in a misogynistic manner. Stone (who gets to show some vulnerability in this movie) didn’t want him on set while she was working. As one viewer commented on IMDb: “Stephen Baldwin [one of Alec’s younger bros] is utterly intolerable, why this man was given leading roles in big budget Hollywood films I will never know.” If you thought Madonna was limited in her (vanity project) Body of Evidence, well Baldwin is worse! Johnny Depp, Val Kilmer, and River Phoenix turned down the role of Zeke. The script originally called for full male frontal nudity (which has become less controversial in the past 5 yrs), but Baldwin changed his mind (after the scenes had been shot). Though he does bare his backside in Basic Instinct, Michael Douglas said no to full frontal nudity.

Philip Noyce (an Aussie w/ extensive TV/movie credits) previously directed Dead Calm, Patriot Games, and Clear and Present Danger. A crew was sent to Hawaii to film an active volcano for the opening credits. The volcano erupted and the helicopter carrying the crew crashed- yikes! No one was killed, BUT all film was lost. Eszterhas’ original ending was confusing to test audiences; an alternate ending was quickly written/shot. I don’t think you can blame Noyce much, as doesn’t have much to work w/ here. According to the director, Stone and Baldwin disliked each other so much that they demanded their scenes be filmed separately (when possible). As for the steamy scenes, they’d have been more effective if there was any romantic chemistry. A young Polly Walker (who went on to work on Rome and Bridgerton) plays Carly’s model neighbor. I think modern viewers will be bored, IF they happen to watch this movie!

Hitchcock’s “Foreign Correspondent” (1940) starring Joel McCrea, Laraine Day, Herbert Marshall, & George Sanders

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The Thrill Spectacle of the Year! -Tagline for the film

Johnny Jones (Joel McCrea) is a crime reporter at a NYC newspaper- The Globe. The editor suddenly appoints him as an European correspondent; he wants a man who’s a clean slate (doesn’t know much re: world affairs). Jones’ 1st assignment is to get the inside story on a secret treaty agreed btwn 2 European countries by a famous Dutch diplomat- Mr. Van Meer (Albert Bassermann). Things don’t go according to plan; Jones enlists an idealistic young woman, Carol Fischer (Laraine Day), help to track down a group of spies. This is Hitchcock’s 2nd American movie; he has a big budget (and it shows in the impressive sets). Rebecca (a huge hit) was also released in 1940. You can watch this movie on Max (new name for HBO Max).

Scott ffolliott: One of my ancestors was beheaded by Henry VIII. His wife dropped the capital letter to commemorate it. There it is.
John Jones: How do you say it, like a stutter?
Scott ffolliott: No, just a straight “fuh.”

To modern eyes, this is a lesser-known Hitchcock film; we find a LOT of his trademarks (which he improved upon later). It’s a BIT long for a classic at 2 hrs; the pacing was slow in some scenes (which is NOT unexpected). It’s an unique blend of comedy and drama; the lighthearted tone in one scene is followed by a more serious (darker) one. The word “Nazi” is never used, BUT we know where the threat is coming from. The 1st choice for the lead was Gary Cooper, BUT he turned it down; he later admitted to Hitchcock that he regretted that decision. Thrillers didn’t have the best reputation at that time. McCrea plays it easy/understated (as he often did in his roles); he has good banter w/ Day. In one action scene, he scales the outside of a hotel in a robe (flashing a LOT of leg). Stephen Fischer (Herbert Marshall) is the most interesting character; he’s clever, witty, charming, yet mysterious. George Sanders gets to play a good guy (which is rare for him); I got a kick out of that. Robert Benchley (also one of the scriptwriters) is V funny as the (experienced) London correspondent who’d rather be drinking.

[1] Though lacking the star power of some of the great director’s more famous movies, the cast is very good, the settings are wonderfully conceived, and the story and writing keep the viewer’s attention at all times. It has everything we hope for from Hitchcock: action, suspense, and a good dose of humor.

[2] …a film which coincidentally carries Hitchcock’s boldest political statement: That neutrality doesn’t work when others are bent on war. […]

Some back in Great Britain complained Hitchcock’s leaving his native country as it faced Hitler all alone was desertion, but Hitchcock was doing all he could for King and Country, as “Foreign Correspondent” pulls all the stops to shake American viewers from their neutrality.

Hitchcock is very careful in presenting the bad guys. He never says they’re Germans, though the implication is obvious. The chief baddie is ruthless but not without decent impulses…

[3] Notice especially the excellence of the exterior set—the sky, the windmills— these visuals are exceptional for a sound stage creation.

-Excerpts from IMDb reviews

“The Fabulous Baker Boys” (1989) starring Jeff Bridges, Michelle Pfeiffer, & Beau Bridges

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For 31 years it’s been just the Fabulous Baker Boys… but times change. -Tagline for the movie

This movie (free on YT in HD quality) focuses on a Seattle piano lounge act performing jazz versions of famous pop songs. The older brother, Frank (Beau Bridges), is married w/ 2 kids and the business manager, front man, and programmer of the playlist. The younger brother, Jack (Jeff Bridges), is carefree w/o commitments; he has one-night stands (mainly w/ cocktail waitresses). Jack has an old black Lab dog (Eddie) and a pre-teen upstairs neighbor (Nina) who lives w/ her single mom (busy dating various men). The Baker Boys’ act is becoming stale; they’re losing the ability to hold onto what gigs they had. Dave Grusin recorded the songs for the soundtrack, BUT Beau and Jeff both learned to play all the songs. To make their playing look realistic, they watched videos of Grusin’s hands playing the music.

Frank comes up w/ the idea of hiring a female singer. After 37 bad auditions, they finally hire Susie Diamond (Michelle Pfeiffer- who sings all her songs); she is rough around the edges and a former escort. Despite Susie having no formal singing experience, she has good enough vocals and can sell a song. She turns off her tough girl attitude when performing; she becomes vulnerable. Soon, they begin getting better gigs and earning more money. Frank thinks the biggest threat is the sexual tension (real or imagined) btwn Jack and Susie. However, the main threat is how Susie is able to expose the (existing) rifts btwn the brothers; Frank’s goal is to provide for his family, while Jack wants to pursue his own musical dreams.

They just don’t make films like this anymore (for the big screen)! It’s a 3-person character drama, NOT unlike what you’d see onstage. The writer (also 1st time director), Steve Kloves, had shown the script to (IRL friend) Pfeiffer 3 yrs. before it was made. Kloves mainly worked as a screenwriter afterwards; he did a fine job here. The film was released in SEPT 1989 in only 800 theaters; it sold out in NYC, Chicago and LA (thanks to word of mouth). There was NOT much money spent by the studio (Fox) on advertising.

I love them- both the Bridges brothers! -Michelle Pfeiffer on Inside the Actors Studio

Some critics (of ALL genders) commented: “This is Jeff Bridges looking his hottest.” Most of the time, Jack (an anti-hero) is wearing a black tux open at the collar. Susie has a variety of dresses, ranging from trashy to elegant. They BOTH have great hair, too! The audience is anxious for them to get together, BUT they need time (as they are guarded emotionally). The Fabulous Baker Boys is a must-see film w/ intelligent dialogue, great acting, and sparkling chemistry. There is a sense of authenticity; the settings are NOT always glam and the characters are multi-layered.

“Mulholland Falls” (1996) starring Nick Nolte, Melanie Griffith, & Jennifer Connelly

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The power of love vs. the love of power. -A tagline for the film

This neo noir is set in the 1950s; the LAPD cops we meet are part of the anti-organized crime squad (“the Hat Squad”). These men are big/tough and do NOT hesitate to break the law, IF it suits their purposes; the drive around in a black convertible (1949 Buick Roadmaster). The leader of this unit is Det. Max Hoover (Nick Nolte); he and his wife, Katherine (Melanie Griffith), seem to have a V happy marriage. A local young woman, Allison Pond (Jennifer Connelly), is brutally murdered and dumped at building site; the investigation reveals she’d been romantically linked to several prominent men. One of her lovers was Gen. Thomas Timms (John Malkovich), the head of the Atomic Energy Commission; he is shown w/ her on a film. Hoover gets a shock when he sees Allison’s body; he knew her as well!

It kind of shocked everyone who knows me that I wound up doing this movie, because I had always been so careful about nudity; it was very much a part of this character and I couldn’t be coy or guarded or self-conscious, otherwise it wouldn’t work. It was sort of a challenge I wanted to take on, I guess. -Jennifer Connelly on her nude scenes

There are SO many familiar (some who became famous) faces here in cameos or supporting roles: Rob Lowe, Louise Fletcher, William Petersen (before his CSI days), Andrew McCarthy (as Allison’s gay bestie), Treat Williams (who passed away last wk.), Kyle Chandler, Michael Madsen, Daniel Baldwin (older bro of Alec), and Chazz Palminteri (as a somewhat sensitive cop). All of Connelly’s scenes are shown in flashbacks. This was the 1st American film directed by a New Zealander (Lee Tamahori); his mother is British and his father is Maori. He gained the attn. of Hollywood after getting critical acclaim for the indie drama Once Were Warriors (1994); I need to check that out soon. The DP is Haskell Wexler; he is considered one of the best in the field of cinematography.

Gen. Timms: These tiny particles of matter, which are so small that no one’s ever seen them – never – they contain enough energy to blow up this house, an entire city, every person on Earth. Now that is inconceivable.

Hoover: General, I really don’t think much about those things. I’d probably see too much.

Gen. Timms: What do you see?

Hoover: People dead before their time.

Gen. Timms: That’s the history of the world, Lieutenant. Some people die before their time so that others can live. It’s the cornerstone of civilization. War, religion, democracy. A hundred die so that a thousand may live.

This was a time of great change is the U.S. We see the suburbs being built; some cops are skeptical about these planned developments (long drive from the city). Max’s partner, Elleroy (Palminteri), has been seeing a (female) therapist. Unlike Max (who keeps things bottled up), Elleroy is able to talk about his (conflicting) feelings on the job. Malkovich gets some of the best lines; he plays a cold/smart/privileged man who thinks he’s above the law. The costumes, sets, and atmosphere reminded me V strongly of the older noirs. As one astute viewer wrote: “It isn’t your traditional cop drama/political thriller because of the nature of the main characters. They don’t always play by the rules, but in the end, they are the good guys. And, it’s got a good finale.”