A different way of telling a story

If the ambition is to provide two hours of instantly forgettable, popcorn-munching escapism, it succeeds.

The biggest problem with this movie is it’s a little better than you think it might be, which somehow makes it worse. As in, it takes itself a bit too seriously, which makes most of the movie feel kind of dull.

By the time the dramatic fireworks start popping off, each one feels earned.

Texas home video store clerk Matthew McConaughey (as Ed Pekurny) attracts the attention of "True TV" producer Ellen DeGeneres (as Cynthia Topping). She wants to star Mr. McConaughey in a 24-hour reality show. At first, big executive Rob Reiner (as Whitaker) seems reluctant, but Ms. DeGeneres is a persuading advocate for "Ed TV". The TV show is a huge hit, as you may have guessed. The cameras capture McConaughey when he wakes up reaching for himself in sweatpants, and throughout his days. Release forms are signed by McConaughey's friends and relatives. Most often seen are worked-out older brother Woody Harrelson (as Ray) and UPS truck driver girlfriend Jenna Elfman (as Shari)...Everyone loves "Ed" but me. Look at all the fans. All ages, classes, regions, races, creeds, colors and gender preferences are portrayed as avid "Ed" supporters. Granted, McConaughey is a good looking man, but what is his character's appeal? He and his morning "chubby" are a bore. His romantic comedy adventures are not fun or funny. We could see Howard Beale's appeal in "Network" (1976) and get "The Truman Show" (1998). Now, perhaps director Ron Howard and the writers are making a point about US television viewers. If so, the years have proved them accurate."Ed" may intentionally be made a "common man." That's fine, but it still lacks a satirical bite...If you're interested in "movie, movie" making, "Ed TV" has an added interest in that it is a movie about motion pictures (albeit television). The production values are very high, with outstanding cinematography by John Schwartzman. The lighting technicians are especially skillful. Many scenes feature incredibly artful lighting. On televisions in the movie, the visuals are less than lackluster...Long-time followers of Mr. Howard will see his old "Happy Days" pal Donny Most in a minor role. Among the others is the director's brother Clint Howard. For some reason, the camera zooms in on Clint's hair transplant. By the way, we're shown a close-up of McConaughey clipping his toenails, but have no idea how he maintains that perfectly maintained stubble. Veterans Sally Kirkland and Martin Landau are Ed's parents. They do a fine job, and Harrelson is more than convincing as the brother. In fact, Woody looks like Matt's brother. Semi-sexual attraction includes the brothers appearing half-dressed and an arousing woman in thong. Beating all is Elizabeth Hurley (as Jill), who radiates sex...So, maybe "Ed TV" was about watching him have sex, all along. If so, you won't learn or see much.***** Ed TV (1999-03-26) Ron Howard ~ Matthew McConaughey, Jenna Elfman, Woody Harrelson, Ellen DeGeneres

Ed-T.V. (1999): Dir: Ron Howard / Cast: Matthew McConaughey, Jenna Elfman, Woody Harrelson, Ellen DeGeneres, Martin Landau: Similar to The Truman Show that involves the hero's life to the public. The difference is that Ed is aware of the cameras while Truman must discover it for himself. Another difference is that Ed-T.V seems to address ordinary habits often performed in private. When a TV station receives low ratings, Ellen DeGeneres suggests placing someone's life on T.V. Matthew McConaughey plays ordinary video store clerk Ed. Woody Harrelson plays his brother who wishes to open a gym but is caught on camera with a naked woman. His girlfriend Jenna Elfman detests this and starts dating Ed but she hates the cameras. Insightful directing by Ron Howard who previously made Apollo 13. Terrific performance by McConaughey who plays off the ordinary guy. Jenna Elfman plays his girlfriend who grows frustrated with being rated by the media as Ed's girlfriend. This all pretty much ends with predictable results much like prime time television. Harrelson plays the brother jealous of Ed's success and oblivious to his own failures. DeGeneres counters standard material by solving the plot problem. Martin Landau plays Ed's stepfather whom Ed has a good relationship with. Interesting take on celebrity life capitalizing on The Truman Show. Score: 8 / 10

Another doughty Ron Howard picture. Just like Peter Cattaneo (of The Full Monty/The Rocker) he takes an idea, a good script and a top-notch cast and makes an exhaustive, quick-fire comedy without pretension or fuss.It's a clever film. Ahead of the MTV-type show it's satirising it essays all the attractions and pitfalls of such a dead-end genre. Inbetween are any number of clever appropriations of current TV shows and celebrities, and all the practical quirks of getting such coverage on the TV - the crowds, crazies and camera moves.Matthew McConaughey gives a stand-out performance as the eponymous Ed. Jenna Elfman is a terrific Renée Zellweger-type for people who find Zellweger trying. Martin Landau isn't just there to bolster his pension either. Slick, knowing, but above all big hearted fun. 7.5/10

When I saw this movie, I kept thinking it was very much like a book I read. Has anyone else ever heard of a book with a similar plot? I would be interested in finding the name/author of such a book, if so.I thought the movie had an interesting premise. It was a lot like the reality shows such as big brother. But the end was more in keeping with my own point of view. I do not watch reality shows, and would not want to be in one. I value my privacy too much to allow the whole world to be watching my every move, and commenting on my every decision and action. Overall, I would say the movie is worth a trip to the theater (whoops, I guess I mean the video store or library)