Review of A Prairie Home Companion (2006) by Jesse T — 12 Jun 2009

This movie is so contagious. I was watching it not knowing what to expect and around a quarter way through the film I was sucked in. It's almost like this film becomes personal. You get to know these characters and their lives and what they do backstage... it's like you've known them for a long time.

Robert Altman has always been a master when it came to characters and their dialogue. This film is absolutely top notch and it was all that I expected and more. These characters, including Mr. Keillor himself, are all very interesting. From Dusty and Lefty the duo that sings about risqué things to Yolanda and Rhonda the country siren sisters that sing touching songs about their late mother, they are all infectious. They make you want to know more about them and that's what I love about Altman's films. Streep, Kline and Tomlin give the best performances in this film. Kline was perfect for his role and made me laugh out loud non-stop.

Unfortunately, this was Robert Altman's last film. Mr. Altman passed away November 20th of this year, but he will be remembered for his wonderful contributions to cinema and his masterful direction. Just like what I said about Stanley Kubrick I say about Robert Altman, "this is a terrific film to be remembered as your last".

A great film with a great cast makes for a great experience. One of the best films of the year.