Wednesday, November 9, 2016

Movie Review: "L.A. Story" (1991)

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Movie"L.A. Story"
Director: Mick Jackson
Year: 1991
Rating: PG-13
Running Time: 1 hour, 35 minutes

A wacky weatherman looks for love in the alternate universe that is Los Angeles, CA.

"L.A. Story" is a comedic fantasy romance directed by Mick Jackson and is written by and stars Steve Martin. He plays a wacky weatherman named Harris K. Telemacher, who falls for an English journalist named Sara, played by Victoria Tennant, despite the fact he is already in a relationship. Beyond being a love story, this is an homage to 1990's Los Angeles and the culture and lifestyle of those who live there, including things like Sunday brunch where you are always fashionably late, driving everywhere regardless how close the destination is to your general vicinity, earthquakes that don't even phase the locals, celebrity-obsessed restaurants full of waiters who are aspiring actors, and much more. There is also a lot of referential humor involving William Shakespeare where his works are constantly (mis)quoted and scenes from his works are acted out on screen. Though this is a comedy and it can get pretty silly at times, there are some genuinely beautiful, tender moments about having dreams, finding love, and true friendships.

Steve Martin is fantastic as Harris K. Telemacher and offers a wonderfully funny, genuine performance. His charisma works wonders in this type of film. Victoria Tennant also does a fantastic job as the odd yet sophisticated British journalist Sara. The two work really well together and have believable, palpable chemistry. It probably didn't hurt that they were married during the time this movie was filmed. There is also a solid supporting cast including Sarah Jessica Parker as the ditsy clothing store clerk SanDeE*, Richard E. Grant as Sara's ex-husband Ronald, and Marilu Henner, who plays Harris' abrasive girlfriend Trudi, who is having an affair behind his back.

This is a charming, lighthearted, fancy-free, fantastical, eccentric and fun movie that is really enjoyable to experience. It is a must watch for anyone who lived in LA during the 90's (or lives there now, for that matter). It is one of the best films of Steve Martin's career, and he has an excellent supporting cast to back him up in his zaniness.

My Rating: 8/10
BigJ's Rating: 8/10
IMDB's Rating: 6.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 94%
Do we recommend this movie: Yes!

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