lucky them
2015 review number 36:
Lucky Them: (Drama/Comedy): 61 out of 100: Here is an independent release that is similar in theme to last year's "Begin Again" which starred Mark Ruffalo and Keira Knightley. However it's not as absorbing and interesting. There are some solid moments although the overall package has a sameness about it which prevents it from reaching gold status.
Toni Collette plays music journalist Ellie Klug who hasn't written a decent article for a while. She is more interested in having affairs with younger musicians. Her editor boss Giles (Oliver Platt) implores her to write an article on long lost rock musician Matthew Smith who happens to be her ex-boyfriend. Charlie (Thomas Haden Church) accompanies her to film a documentary of her search for Smith.
Collette is an underrated actress who again makes a film better than it actually is. She is convincing whether she is alone in a scene or acting with others. Although Haden Church is funny at times he becomes annoying and grating after a while. Platt is criminally underused and his scenes with Collette are some of the best in the film. There is a cameo from a huge star playing the ex-boyfriend so I'll leave it as a surprise because his appearance towards the end will definitely make you sit up and take notice. His cameo sure did surprise me.
Although the film focuses on the music scene, there really aren't any standout songs. This is where the difference between "Lucky Them" and "Begin Again" is noticeable. Also markedly different is the character study. The latter film had characters which you could really sink your teeth into plus the dramatic moments excelled. "Lucky Them" sails along without detouring too much from its one-note plot. You get Collette searching for her ex-boyfriend and that's pretty much it.
"Lucky Them" still has its fair share of moments to make it entertaining but just not enough of them to make it a memorable movie. Those who like independent releases won't mind sitting through this but those only after event films or blockbusters can save their money.
Starring Toni Collette, Thomas Haden Church and Oliver Platt
(96 minutes)
Parental advice: Coarse language and sexual references
Additional scene during or after credits: No
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sCkn9eRjeDE (Movie trailer)
(Reviewed on Saturday 7th March, 2015)
For my latest reviews, go to this link: http://mlaimlai2.wix.com/magical-movie-review
