THE GREAT BUCK HOWARD (2009)

CAST: Colin Hanks, Emily Blunt, John Malkovich, Steve Zahn, Debra Monk, Ricky Jay, Tom Hanks, Griffin Dunne, Don Most, Adam Scott

Written & Directed By: Dean McGinly
Cinematography By: Tak Fujimoto
Editor: Myron Kerstein

The movie is better then expected but still is just ok. The way in which it works is that it is heartwarming just when you think it is going to be cruel. I respect the film for it’s nostalgic feel though it is set up in modern times and doesn’t take the road of cynicism.

Which is partially represented by Entertainment weekly which I thought may have been a swipe at them for some past insult to the producer Tom hanks. I think the film has the tone it does because of producer tom hanks a well known fan of classic Americana. This film feels like his personality realistic but charming.

The film is loosely based on the entertainer/Mentalist The Amazing Kreskin who we are introduced to by Colin hanks who drops out of law school much to the anger of his father to find himself he goes to Los Angeles and takes the job of road manager to The mentalist Buck Howard and we follow their travels as buck is a chore to take care of because he is in the twilight of his career yet he’s the only one who doesn’t realize it. Along the way Colin Hanks character just may have found love.

The performances are good but not great John Malkovich is the most interesting character as usual but he has the most defined character. Colin hanks is the lead but pretty much the straight man. He is a good actor but he has no form to really compel you to him. Is that his fault or the film’s who knows. Emily blunt I liked when she comes into the film she is like a breath of fresh air. She is just so vivacious. But she seems only to come along to put some excitement into the film she is not really needed in the film plot wise.

I feel the film could have gotten more publicity then it did especially considering the star behind the film. It didn’t deserve the straight to video graveyard I think it was sweet enough to make a profit. Much like most of the movies Tom hanks Production company PLAYTONE makes they ahe a certain sweetness but tend to bomb in fact the biggest hit so far has been MY BIG FAT GREEK WEDDING while films like THAT THING YOU DO, I HATE VALENTINES DAY, CONNIE & CARLA have all failed.

The film is a satisfying rental not great but watching this I don’t think anyone was expecting a classic.

GRADE: C+