Review of EDtv (1999) by Aaron T — 06 Oct 2007
Ron Howard's vague feelgood satire works admirably given its simple ingredients. It's hardly a scathing attack on TV, and nothing is said that isn't obvious, but there are some amusing twists and the oddly high profile cast perform brilliantly.
(Particularly Ellen DeGeneres and Martin Landau, both scene-stealing.) Matthew McConaughey's apparent charm as Ed is mystifying given how dull the character is, and his relationships with various family members - particularly Woody Harrelson's unpleasant brother Ray - are generally undercooked.
But it's amusing, watchable stuff anyway, undemanding and inoffensive. (It's easy to compare this to The Truman Show, but please don't bother. Peter Weir's visual masterwork is in a different league, but EDTV isn't trying to compete; Ron Howard claimed some inspiration came from Brit TV show The Big Breakfast, of all things.
Besides, if it is similar, it's a slightly different angle. Who cares? They're different movies.).
This review of EDtv (1999) was written by Aaron T on 06 Oct 2007.
EDtv has generally received mixed reviews.
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