Review of Big Night (1996) by Ryan H — 11 Sep 2010

Before I slam this I do have to say this: the performances are great (especially Ian Holm), the ending is perfect, and I like the family aspect of the movie whether I agree with it or not. However, this movie is written like it was handed a formula sheet and it follows every single rule except for the end.

Within the first five minutes I could tell you the big plot points that were to come. And the sad thing is, I was right. It's not surprising to find out Ian Holm's true intentions, we know that the two girls are going to meet each other, that no matter what the main character isn't going to want to leave America.

And here is the problem... why?! What is so great? I could make guesses on my every day life, but the don't even explain it here. Everything is surface level. They present the audience with a bunch of ideas but never truly delve into them.

The characters are so small that it takes a microscope to see them. Honestly, did we know any of them by the end of the movie? We are supposed to care greatly about the outcome of the two brothers, but I didn't.

That was the main problem: I didn't really know much so I didn't care. Yes, some moments were funny in a stage play kind of way, but overall it's boring. If you want time to slow this is a great film.

But honestly, it was so horribly written and the only great shot was one that was inspired by Mean Streets, that this movie never succeeds in being anything other than a moving picture on screen.