Review of Hannah and Her Sisters (1986) by Marissa K — 27 Feb 2009

I'm not the biggest Woody Allen fan, but "Hannah and Her Sisters" is far more engaging than I would have ever given it credit for. It's chock full of the usual themes, love, relationships, human neurosis, you know all the things that make the world go round.

Ultimately it's engrossing and deadpan and delightful. You don't so much envy the sisters as say to yourself, "I've had that moment", and it's that recognition of the ridiculousness of everyday situations that makes this movie something to remember.

Great performances by Michael Caine and all of the ladies, and of course, Mr. Allen himself. Nothing fancy, just a great script and enough to keep you curious about the outcome. All this, plus one of the best lines in movie history, in my opinion.

I'll paraphrase, but it's uttered by Max Van Sydow in a quiet moment of truth "If Jesus knew what was going on down here in his name, he'd never stop throwing up". Show this to your friends who say "but I'm not a Woody Allen fan" and they might change their minds.

Next to tackle, Annie Hall.