Review of Welcome to Mooseport (2004) by Laura L — 17 Aug 2004

Welcome to Mooseport (2004) Gene Hackman, Ray Romano, Marcia Gay Harden, Rip Torn, Maura Tierney, Christine Baranski, Fred Savage, D: Donald Petrie. Romano makes his feature debut in this enjoyably satisfying comedy as a small town hardware store owner who takes on the former U.

S. president (Hackman) in a heated mayoral race after his girlfriend accepts a date with the president to open up his eyes and propose. Hackman brings more comedic punch to his role than what?s deserved from Romano, but they?re perfect together and get great supporting help.

Tierney is just plain likable, Harden takes a fun comedy turn, and Baranski has the most edge and energy as the president?s shrewish ex-wife whom he calls ?the Wicked Witch of the West Wing.? Overlong to boot, but brings on the smiles if you go along with it.

Running Time: 110 minutes and rated PG-13 for some brief sexual comments and nudity. ** ½.