Review of Down in the Valley (2005) by Tania B — 24 Jul 2008
Where to begin?... Ok, I am not going to lie to you, nor to myself... So, here goes nothing...
The truth is that this one is in fact a "2 1/2 stars" movie to me. It has an interesting screenplay - I'll give 'em that - but as far as I can see it, the story could have been told in a much more intense way. They had almost everything in their hands to turn this film into a breath taking one, and it really was a shame to watch them throw it all away just like that. Bottom line: they were TOO DAMN SOFT! The cues for a twisted movie were flashing before their eyes, but I guess they must have missed 'em anyway - or chosen not to see 'em (which, by the way, doesn't make it any better).
Now... I had to stretch my rating 1/2 a star because of Norton's performance. Although Harlan is nowhere near Derek or even 'Jack', it is he who endows this movie with some artistic texture - especially in the solo scenes. Nevertheless, I must admit that this was not one of Norton's most brilliant performances. He really incarnated the character - as usual - but had some unfortunate slips along the way... Well, nobody's perfect, right?
This review of Down in the Valley (2005) was written by Tania B on 24 Jul 2008.
Down in the Valley has generally received positive reviews.
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