Review of Alfie (2004) by Vanya M — 30 Mar 2012

Having seen both the original Alfie from 1966 and the remake from 2004, I think I have a pretty clear view of things instead of wondering what's it all about? First of all, Jude Law is terrific in the movie and gives a fantastic performance, despite the detractors.

Second, I found the film incredibly personal and very moving at times, just like I did with the original. Third, the film's style was very engaging and kept things interesting visually, as well as moved the story along at a brisk pace.

The problem that I have with it, and the same goes for the original, is that Alfie really is the star of the show and the supporting actors really don't have that much to do. The only person who really gets to shine is Sienna Miller, and even then it's very brief.

Don't get me wrong though. This isn't something I'd watch over and over again. It's not an enjoyable sort of movie as much as it is a bit of a character study, one who's character you don't like all that much for the duration of the film (I kind of like that).

I also think the comedy bits could be improved as there doesn't seem to be much there to play with. It's more of a character drama than anything, but it also tries to be a light-hearted comedy at times, and the two seem to clash at times aesthetically.

I still enjoyed the movie and was magnetized by Jude Law's performance. I can't compare it to the original, because the remake is so much more modernized and stylistic in comparison, but for what it is it's worth a look or two.