WHAT ABOUT BOB? (1991) *** Very clever script seduced the only two stars you could have thought of while reading it. Playing strength to strength, ultra yuppie shrink celebré Richard Dreyfuss gives the farce treatment to pathologically neurotic Bill Murray. Rarely has a comedy so squarely straddled cerebral and slapstick brilliance. They play off each other so well, some call it synergy I call it competitive ego. I'd give the nod to Dick in a split decision, lacking multiple schizophrenia is even more blessings than evading generalized gestalt syndrome. Or is it? Do you want a pizza? Ok, go over to the phone...pick it up...baby steps, yes, it's what made commerce great, but maybe it's not so bad to stop and look around every once in awhile. All answers are in this film, in every fiber of the psychiatrist inside you, and reflect off of everything else. Not just Bill and Dick, perfect supporting performances by Julie Hagerty, Kathryn Erbe, and Fran Brill. We're all at least a little nuts, and only the most absolutely bizarre cases don't have at least traces of every symptom. So part of it is which way the wind blows the emotional microscope, and maybe more of it is shrugging than naming, or vilifying, or obsessing. But some of the best parts are.
back to Brilliant Observations on 1776 Films page, or Index
go back home, or send me email
Reviews won't do it any more! I need sustained brilliance! I want to buy your novel!