Strictly average movie

just watch it!

A Brilliant Conflict

One of those movie experiences that is so good it makes you realize you've been grading everything else on a curve.

I just caught this film on IFC late one night and was drawn to it by two actors I've always admired in other films: Lili Taylor and Guy Pearce.Although Lili delivered her usual unique, offbeat take on a complicated character, I was especially impressed by Guy Pearce, an Aussie who nailed the Carolina dialect and surprised me by his musical acuity. I found him as magnetic as Evie/Lili did, though you wouldn't find me carving his name on my head for love or money! But I get why she did it. She's living a stultifying quiet life, wondering if she could just disappear off the face of the earth and probably no one but her devoted Dad would notice. She looks in the mirror and sees a plain, blank face and slumps through her plain, blank life. Several people have commented that his almost grunge musical stylings are way ahead of their 60's time setting, although I found no difficulties accepting that premise. Evie sees him as ahead of his time and bursting with potential, while the rest of the town (with the exception of the hoochie women attracted to his fine physique) just view him as a weirdo. And I think that's the bond that eventually makes him fall for wise and weird little Evie.I missed the first few opening credits so I didn't notice that this was an Anne Tyler concoction. But halfway through the movie I found myself thinking that the internal lives of these characters were very reminiscent of Tyler: Think about Geena Davis' quirky and devoted dog trainer pursuing the emotionally stunted William Hurt in "The Accidental Tourist," and you can see the parallels.No, this wasn't a "great" film in the Hollywood mode, but so what? It moved me. I was drawn in and wondered how their lives played out at the end. They probably should have headed for Seattle, where young Drum could have found himself giving Kurt Cobain a run for his money later on. Pearce himself should think about diversifying into a musical career: what a voice and presence! Not a flick for everyone, but it will hit home to those who are able to suspend their disbelief and "be there" for it.

I just happened to catch this movie on satellite. I like both Lili Taylor and Guy Pearce, so I sat down to watch it. I thought Guy was very hot in this movie. He is a good actor and I didn't know he was a musician until I saw it.As for the movie, I didn't know anything about it or the book, before watching. It was kinda off the wall, but what kept me watching was the songs. Guy Pearce has a sexy voice and can sing! So all in all, I wasn't disappointed. The satellite went out for about 20 minutes, so I missed whatever happened from where he kisses her for the first time until his mom and that pr*ck were eating dinner with Evie, Drum and her dad. I'll probably try to watch it again.I don't really like Shawnee Smith's character. Was she ever sober?

Evie (Lili Taylor) is a quiet and seemingly simplistic small-town girl living in a small town becomes obsessed with an ostensibly "deep" local rock musician (Guy Pearce). After carving his name into her forehead at one of his shows, she becomes his #1 fan, good luck charm, and lover. Lili Taylor is an exceptional actress and gives a fine performance with what she is given to work with here. The supporting cast also stands out, especially Sara Rue and Shawnee Smith. Unfortunately, the story is completely absurd. The dialogue is painful at times, and you have to wonder whether Evie is trying to be comedic or if she really is that stupid. While the music is good and written by respectable songwriters, the trailer clearly states: "featuring actor/musician Guy Pearce." You have been warned. My Rating: 4/10.

Though this film is hard to find, it's worth the effort. Lili Taylor gives a delicate and beautiful performance as a troubled and lonely girl slipping directly from childhood to middle age. Guy Pearce plays an aspiring musician who refuses to abandon his vision, but desperately wants to hit the big time. The images of small-town America are dead on, and are some of the most enjoyable parts of the film. The minor roles are absolutely delightful. Irma P. Hall's role as housekeeper is hilarious, as is Bruno Kirby's portrayal of Evie's boss. See this one when you get the chance.