Review of City Island (2009) by Constantin P — 25 May 2010

Years ago I saw and heard Andy Garcia orate the Candlelight Vigil at Epcot in Orlando, Florida. Before he stepped up to the podium, I watched him backstage. He moved very little and seemed to speak to those around him even less.

Then, when he took the stage, he transformed. He went from docile to animated. But there was still some of the robotic quality I had witnessed back stage in his performance. Then it occured to me: Andy Garcia is a genuine actor.

There was nothing of his true personality in his performance on that Epcot stage. I used to see him as a character actor like Pachino or Deniro. That is not Garcia's style. In City Island, he showcases this strange and meticulous ability: a skill that allows him to assume the role of a complete stranger while never revealing traits that are semblances of the genuine character inside.

That's what's missing from City Island - Andy Garcia. He plays a fleshed out, calculated character that can only be considered professional and perfectly acted. The blocking, performance, and emotional accuracy are all there, but the heart is missing.

City Island is well written, directed, acted, and shot. However, it's all text book and very little poetry. It makes one wonder "where is Andy Garcia's sincerity"?