Review of God Bless America (2012) by Peter N — 05 Jul 2013

You can learn a lot about a filmmaker from their works. Many of a directors story or character trademarks are very subtle. Themes repeat relationships are familiar, but most of the time a director focuses on story first and his personal message or feelings are a byproduct of his creation.

Elements of catholic guilt permeate Scorsese's work, societal anarchy in John Carpenters, Father issues with J.J. Abraham's. With Bobcat Goldwaiths excellent first film Worlds Greatest Dad, he burrowed into a parody goldmine while ripping apart societal hypocrisy and celebrity.

Yet it was Robin Williams character who defined the film, not its message. Like Howard Hawks always said "if you want to send a message, try western union". Joel Murray is excellent as a man beaten down by life, a mild mannered noble, soft spoken man who can't take it anymore, and he shines,he's subtle and real .

..when he's not be used as a mouthpiece for BobCat Goldwaith.