Review of Stage Beauty (2004) by Emily H — 07 Nov 2007

[I mentioned some specific scenes, so.. possible spoilers?].

I really can't help it -- I love this movie. It takes a familiar plot line -- Man betters himself because of woman -- and throws it into a wholly new setting. Not only that, but it adds complications like Ned's bisexuality and burlesque career; also Mariah's position as both damner and savior. Again, I can't even help it that I love this movie so much... With scenes like the beating of Ned by his former admirers and also the powerfully emotional performance of Desdemona's death in Othello at the end of the movie, it earns every star.