Review of Duets (2000) by Ali S — 07 Aug 2009

So, I'm probably overrating this movie. I will admit it. I finished watching the movie and thought that it was worth a bout 2 stars. But then I did something I should never do before writing my review: I watched the audio commentary. Suddenly a film that I thought was pretty bad became pretty average. You see, Bruce Paltrow had throat cancer and it was a labour of love that took 5 years to make. That's right - 5 years for this! But now it really truly does feel like a 3 star movie and I can't shake it.

Let's talk about the movie itself. Perhaps it would be more exciting if you didn't know what karaoke was. For some reason, they assume that this is a new activity that the audience is somewhat unfamiliar with. So, that's problem number 1. Problem number 2 is that most of the characters are downright annoying. And let's face it, besides the Giamatti/other guy coupling or "duet", none of the pairs matter. Problem number 2. Problem number 3? It's got Huey Lewis as an actor. Come on, dude!

That all being said, I did like the singing and was shocked to learn that it was done (mostly) by the actors themselves. It was much better than what I hear at my local bar on karaoke night. Good job.