Review of Six Degrees of Separation (1993) by Cary C — 28 Sep 2008

Something this intelligent and cerebral will not be to everyone's taste. If you are looking for explosions look elsewhere, unless you are interested in psychological revelations and transformations . . . in which case, well come on in!

In essence, based on real events in which a young gay man charmed his way into New York society and then fell through the bottom of it as the truth of his identity and problems emerged. The script is sharp and playful . . . this was one of the first films to really convince me that Hollywood could occasionally deliver a sparkling gem without descending into cliche. Performances are as good as they could get . . . Will Smith's sometimes annoying earnestness fits this character perfectly and to his credit, he will win your heart as things fall apart. The other main players, Donald Sutherland and Stockard Channing deliver the kind of class more reminiscent of the old classic Hollywood, and thank heavens for that. They are marvellous, both performances alchemical and full of nuances that only become more delicious on repeated viewings . . . 'chaos, control, chaos, control'.

If you aren't afraid of letting your brain cells get excited with word play and can sit through the initially cocky Will Smith's arrival . . . you will discover a real gem. An utter classic to treasure.

And when you have watched it, do some internet research to discover the story. It is genuinely moving.