Review of Wonder Boys (2000) by Eli B — 09 May 2008

I can't believe this movie bombed at theaters, BOTH times. This is definitely an underrated movie that deserves more recognition. Sure, it might not be everyone's cup of tea but that's what makes it more special. Where movies today constantly hash out the same tired cliches, Wonder Boys deliberately dares to be different.

The real reward here is the amount of chaos present in such a idyllic backdrop. Hannah is present as an obvious love interest, but is a decoy; Tripp trying to spend time with James who he believes is really depressed or suicidal but in the end, is the person to help him through unconventional methods including, but not limited to, shooting the dog that belongs to the husband of the woman he loves, Crabtree picks up a transvestite on his flight in, but dumps him for James, who is not exactly straight or gay (neither is Crabtree) all while constantly hounding Tripp for a book; and Sara is not hysterical about being pregnant and is understanding, actually, about Grady's chaotic lifestyle but insists on a decision about their future.

Everything in this movie is more like an observation into life rather than a mechanical Hollywood film. Whereas the latter would emphasize on certain elements for a big dramatic effect, Wonder Boys throws it aside as an off-hand comment. Such as the moment where everyone meets the transvestite, everyone says, "Hey, that's a transvestite" and moves on. No, "OH MY GOD! THAT WOMAN'S A MAN! WE MUST MAKE A BIG DEAL OUT OF THIS!" The same could be said about Crabtree's sexuality, sure he has a weakness for the flesh but no one cares beyond 3 seconds and neither does Downey, in which he deserves some kudos. As for other performances, they were great. Katie Holmes doesn't suck and Tobey Maguire can actually pull off moody and dark.

Like said before, not everyone's cup of tea. There might be too much going on in this film for everyone. People who say, "There's a story there, but it's probably not very interesting." are the ones who want the big dramatic moments. As for those yearning for something a little more soothing, consider this movie sometime.