Review of The Rewrite (2014) by Phil P — 14 Nov 2014

"If you don't believe writing can be taught what will we do in your class?".

Much like Marc Lawrence's previous work - 'Music & Lyrics'. 'The Rewrite' is about second chances. However this time around the romantic aspect is (mostly) put to the side in favour of a more substantial look at 'Keith Richards' (Hugh Grant) life - a struggling writer. A lack of a romantic aspect is a shock given the initial vibe I got from the trailer. And whether that improves things is debatable as 'The Rewrite' is ultimately solid, decent, ok in my eyes.

'Keith Richards' seemingly can't get another movie script accepted - as the industry has changed and his ideas are no longer 'fresh'. He reluctantly takes a job at a University teaching screen-writing. It doesn't take too long to get going and quickly establishes the industry problem and his problems. The pacing is spot-on to begin with, Keith has a lackadaisical attitude and contempt for teaching - believing himself to be above it and that this is a minor stumble. Believing writing can't be learnt, his mind starts to change and his arrogant and carelessness begins to change - naturally a women is a part of the reason. 'Keith' is a well developed character but everyone else lacks the personality to be nothing more than side acts to the main event.

I have to say the first half of the film is much stronger than the second. It too quickly folds down into a typical revelation point - realising not being on point in the industry any-more isn't a bad thing but he could help future writers. Despite the characters being pretty bland the actors do a find job of keeping them above the water - occasionally throwing out a joke or two. There is chemistry between 'Marisa Tomei' and 'Hugh' something most of these things hand on and like I said even though it isn't a Rom-Com it helps the film immensely when things start to stutter.

The ending may be predictable and the amount of feel-good at times made me cringe slightly 'The Rewrite' has a lot of genuine heart to it and some decent laughs too. 'Hugh' and 'Marisa' match up well and the rest of the cast give there otherwise ordinary characters appealing. It has a good first act but as things wind down it rushes some of the issues with too little ease. Solid, but nothing more.