Review of America's Sweethearts (2001) by H L — 07 Sep 2010

Films about show business ? particularly that of movie making ? can be tricky, especially when there are actors playing actors. Such is the case with this movie. There are some genuinely funny moments involving the cattiness of the beautiful Catherine Zeta- Jones (Death Defying Acts), followed by the absurdity that is John Cusack (Serendipity).

Then there?s Julia Roberts (Valentine?s Day) and Billy Crystal (Monster?s Inc). This is supposed to be a starring vehicle for Roberts, with a supporting turn from Crystal ? who also co-wrote it. It ends up feeling like a watered down pairing of Roberts and Cusack, while completely ignoring Zeta-Jones?s obvious acting talents.

Though, the supporting cast ? including Stanley Tucci (The Lovely Bones), Hank Azaria (Run, Fat Boy, Run), and Christopher Walken (Sleepy Hallow) ? do make it fairly funny. It?s kind of sad though that it features two leads that aren?t really likeable, despite the desperate attempts of the filmmakers to make them so.