Review of Fame (2009) by Anthony H — 12 Dec 2009

One of Alan Parker's earlier efforts 'Fame' succeeds in being an enjoyable musical, often threatening to be a pretty good film.

Parker's gift for creating an intimate spectacle shines, with involving and colorful dance scenes, filled with vibrancy and requiring considerable suspension of disbelief. These, coupled with the film's excellent soundtrack, punctuate the drama in 'Fame', which, on the whole, is much more hit and miss.

It is possible that Parker takes on too many characters, or that he gives too much attention to the Doris, Montgomery and Ralph trio, but either way the other kids from The Performing Arts School feel underdeveloped and their scenes disjointed.

It is possible, however, that any empathy is lost with the fame seeking self-obsessed characters (considering the film was a hit, that might just be me). But that is the nature of the beast. An interesting attempt.