Synopsis:
Rob, a record store owner and
compulsive list maker, recounts his top five breakups, including the one in
progress.
Brian's
Rating: B : I had watched this movie back when it came out in 2000 and
remember liking it. I can't remember why, but I think it was because it starts
with a breakup and ends with a reconciliation. I think one of the reasons I
liked it is because I was either just finishing a similar reconciliation, or I
was hoping one would happen. In either case, its not as relevant to my life
right now, so therefore it wasn't as good as I remember. Also, in a few more
years nobody will know what a mix-tape is since they are now supplanted by
playlists.
Scott could tell you the specific name for the film style where the characters
talk directly to the audience as if they are an interactive character available
to converse with. This movie has it and pulls it off well. The main character
is constantly reiterating top 5 lists throughout the movie, mostly to the
camera. Everything in his life is related to a top 5 list--he even names a
record label "Top 5 Records".
This qualifies as one of those rare romantic comedies I like. Rob, the main
character, progresses from a point at the beginning of the movie where he
doesn't have a clue what he wants in life to a self-realization at the end that
he has what he wants right in front of him. Its interesting to watch that
process. Also, Jack Black, in one of his earlier roles, is hilarious. He was
pretty much born for comedic relief. In my opinion he should stop taking
leading roles and be supporting cast the rest of his career. He is so much
better in that role.
Even though its not as good as I remember, it still garners a recommendation
from me. See it if you have a chance.
The
Freak's Rating: C- : The style Brian is referring to is called the
calssic Hollywood narrative with an omniprescent feel thrust onto the audience.
We are meant to feel that we do play a role in the film by this style, though in
my opinion, not nearly as well done here. I feel a true narrative needs to
remain just that, not throwing any type of reality or involvement from the
audience. Many film lovers share my sentiment, feeling that when we are
made aware we are watching a movie, we lose our element on the entertainment
aspect and our suspension of disbelief is erased.
High Fidelity reminds me of my video
store management days on a number of levels including the staff and work
atmosphere and even as far as the relationships staff and management underwent
during this time period of their life. There are cameos thrown in to
attempt to gain respect as a piece of artwork, but overall I feel High Fidelity
falls quite short of a recommendation.
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