Review of Walk of Shame (2014) by Bluesette M — 28 May 2015

Wow. Twelve Per Cent? Really? This strikes me (us) as bordering upon the surreal!

Is this some kind of critic-mediated politically-inspired censure against Steve Brill? LIGHTEN UP, PEOPLE!!

My wife and I got several belly laughs from this film (currently being aired on HBO), and are baffled by the hostility shown to it on this forum. In fact I was compelled to re-ignite my old membership here just to post this. Misogynistic? Cultural stereotypes?

Well, the latter admittedly somewhat, but it's a COMEDY! The stereotypes aren't mean or offensive. In fact, for example, the trio of (yes, African American--how inappropriate) crack dealers are portayed sympathetically and, yes, humorously. (Another neighbourhood features a quipping, white crack dealer) Where are the "critics'" humour in this admittedly light fare?

Banks proves herself a very adept comedic actress, carrying much of the movie solo. She also greatly resembles Jane Fonda in her prime, which is saying a lot (sorry if that somehow offends some sensibilities). It's merely a farcical comedy, the plot adequately described in previous posts, that paces itself quite well, is sharply written, with a sympathetic and, actually, believable lead surrounded by some terrific supporting cast members.

The "message" of the movie, if a raison d'etre is needed besides being a comedic tour de force, boils down to, essentially, that one mustn't judge based solely upon appearances. Nothing too threatening or somehow inappropriate about that. I also appreciate that the plot is based upon the fact that--let's face it--most young women dressed up these days to go night-clubbing do indeed resemble, yes, prostitutes. Consequently, this film can be seen as a sly, ANTI-misogynist protest against the over-sexualization and consequent objectification of women!

Additionally, this comedy lacks any scatological or other low-brow humour, which seems to be increasingly popular these days, unfortunately, and actually is aimed at an adult audience.

Given the mediocrity and sophomoricity (if that's a word...) of much of what passes for "comedy" these days, it's unfortunate that this movie did so poorly at the box office, and it upsets me that, had we seen the poor ratings on this forum beforehand, my wife and I might well have passed on an enjoyable 90 minutes watching it!

Sure, it's not high art (although the last minute actually DOES feature a gorgeous, slow, helicopter-shot tilt upwards to the LA sunset), and makes no pretension to be, but as a somewhat silly, genuinely funny farcical and romantic comedy, it works perfectly well!